Former Staff Sergeant and ex-Mayor of Georgetown, Pt. Ubraj Narine, has launched a scathing attack on the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), accusing the institution of political bias, double standards, and a breakdown in professional integrity. His explosive claims come amid growing concerns over the neutrality of state institutions ahead of Guyana’s 2025 general elections.
In a public statement, Narine said he was “deeply concerned” to witness Dr. Mahendra Carpen and Dr. Erica Forte, both serving Reserve Officers in the GDF and individuals he personally knows, openly participating in political events on the platform of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP).
“The GDF — an institution that should remain apolitical and impartial — has shown clear signs of political bias,” Narine stated.
While acknowledging that every citizen has the constitutional right to political association, Narine took issue with what he described as a “blatant double standard”. He pointed to his own dismissal from the GDF Reserve in December 2022 — a move made without explanation, due process, or any justification.
“No reasons were ever given for my dismissal,” he said. “Yet today, we see other Reserve Officers actively engaging in partisan political activities with no consequences — in fact, they appear to be celebrated.”
The former Staff Sergeant said this clear disparity raises serious questions about selective enforcement and political favouritism within the GDF. “Why was I treated differently? Why is political involvement punished in some cases but rewarded in others—depending on who you support?” he asked.
Narine warned that this kind of inconsistency threatens the very foundation of public trust in the military and the wider democratic process. He described the situation as not just a personal injustice, but a wider threat to fairness, justice, and institutional credibility.
In a direct challenge to the GDF’s leadership, Narine called on Brigadier General Omar Khan, Chief of Defence Staff, to publicly address the issue and explain the apparent contradiction in the treatment of Reserve Officers.
“The Guyana Defence Force must be held to a higher standard — one that does not bend to political pressure or discriminate based on political affiliation,” he said.
The GDF has not yet responded to the allegations.
