GTUC Message on CARICOM’s 52nd Anniversary- “Rededicate to the People, Reclaim the Vision”

GTUC Message on CARICOM’s 52nd Anniversary- “Rededicate to the People, Reclaim the Vision”

On the occasion of the 52^nd anniversary of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) extends greetings to the peoples of the region. This anniversary presents not only a moment for celebration, but a solemn opportunity for reflection—on our collective journey, and on the values that inspired CARICOM’s founding.

CARICOM was birthed from the vision of four Caribbean leaders:

• Forbes Burnham- Prime Minister of Guyana,
• Errol Barrow- Prime Minister of Barbados,
• Michael Manley- Prime Minister of Jamaica, and
• Dr. Eric Williams- Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago.

  

These leaders were driven not by narrow political interests, but by a bold philosophy: that regional integration was the key to empowering Caribbean people politically, economically, socially, and culturally. Their vision called for shared prosperity, participatory democracy, and regional solidarity in the face of global inequities.

Today, as we mark 52 years since the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas, the GTUC is compelled to say: CARICOM has drifted from its roots.

We are especially disappointed in CARICOM’s failure to stand with the Guyanese people in their ongoing call for electoral reform. Despite intervening in Guyana’s 2020 general elections, CARICOM has since remained silent as citizens call for the cleaning of the voters’ list and the introduction of biometric voter verification—essential steps to ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.

This silence is not neutral. It is betrayal.

We remind CARICOM: you cannot champion democracy when it suits you, and then turn your back when democracy is at risk. The same regional voice that stood tall five years ago has gone missing in 2025, at a time when the Guyanese electorate is preparing for critical elections.

The GTUC also expresses grave concern that across the region, political leadership has become preoccupied with power, personal gain, and protection of privilege, rather than honouring the aspirations of our founding fathers or addressing the needs of the people. Integration is now a slogan, not a shared mission.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s oil wealth, once seen as a beacon of regional upliftment, has instead created deeper inequality, enriching a few while the majority struggle. Opportunities that should empower Caribbean citizens are now captured by oligarchs and insiders. And CARICOM has looked the other way.

As we observe this 52nd anniversary, the GTUC calls on CARICOM to rededicate itself to the people. We urge:

• A renewed focus on democratic accountability and transparency;
• Clear, public support for electoral reforms in Guyana, including a clean voters’ list and biometrics;
• Commitment to the economic upliftment of the Caribbean working class, not just the political elite;
• And the implementation of decisions made in the interest of integration and people-first governance.

Let this anniversary not pass as just another ceremony. Let it mark a turning point—back to the principles of service, equity, democracy, and regional unity that once defined CARICOM.

GTUC stands firmly with the Guyanese people and the working people across this region. We will continue to speak out where others remain silent.

Happy 52nd Anniversary, CARICOM. May this be the year we reclaim our original promise.