By Mark DaCosta- The Bartica United Youth Development Group (BUYDG) has issued a strong statement advocating for equal political rights and the upholding of constitutional freedoms within communities, including Amerindian villages. The group specifically addressed recent actions taken by village leader Toshao Kevin Seegolam, which they deemed unprofessional, arguing that every citizen should have the right to express their political affiliations without fear of retribution from their elected representatives.
In a recent statement, BUYDG, a prominent human rights organisation, publicly expressed disapproval of the remarks made by Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, during a virtual discussion. The group’s position centres on the belief that democracy must be safeguarded, particularly in the context of recent political tensions highlighted by actions of community leaders, notably Seegolam’s public disdain for the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Party’s presence in his community.
Despite a respect for the established governance within Amerindian territories, BUYDG insists that the Toshao’s behaviour was not reflective of the democratic spirit that should guide community leadership. Rather, they urge Toshao Seegolam to uphold his responsibilities and to represent the interests of all constituents, particularly those supportive of differing political views.
BUYDG asserted that “the Constitution of Guyana guarantees citizens, including Amerindians, freedom of assembly and the right to be represented by a leader of their choice.” They argue that political leaders should facilitate, rather than restrict, the voices of their constituents, as every citizen deserves the freedom to explore political options.
The group further highlighted that the constitutional framework in our nation provides fundamental freedoms that should remain inviolable. Key articles within the Constitution — such as Article 147, ensuring freedom of association, and Article 13, which underscores the necessity of inclusive governance — reinforce the imperative for political expression and participation.
Emphasising the significance of these rights, BUYDG poses a critical question regarding the inconsistency of the Toshao’s actions: if the community celebrates the WIN Party, why would their leader act against their democratic choice?
Transitioning to broader electoral concerns, the statement from BUYDG also focused on the significant issue of disenfranchisement faced by eligible voters, notably inmates who, despite their circumstance, retain the constitutional right to vote. Addressing the Attorney General’s claims about the WIN Party’s entry into Amerindian territory, the group reminded that the ongoing exclusion of inmates stands in stark contradiction to the equal representation the Constitution seeks to uphold. BUYDG reiterates that no additional legislation is necessary to safeguard these rights; rather, it calls for firm political will to actualise them.
The group challenges the assertion made by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) that legal hurdles prevent the inclusion of certain voter groups. Citing Article 59, which permits all citizens over the age of 18 to vote, and Article 159(2), which lists specific conditions for voting disqualification, BUYDG contextualises their position firmly within Guyana’s legal framework. “To hide behind claims of ‘no enabling legislation’ is to abandon GECOM’s core duty to facilitate free, fair, and inclusive elections,” they stated, imploring the need for action over inaction.
BUYDG, dedicated to fostering youth involvement and advocating for democratic principles, firmly believes that the future of our nation rests on the capacity for each citizen to exercise their rights freely and equitably. Their unequivocal stance against power abuse in political representation serves not only the interests of the youth but the collective democratic integrity of the country.
In light of these assertions, BUYDG’s commitment to holding political leaders accountable to their constituents remains steadfast. The group aims to ensure that the voice of every citizen in our homeland is both heard and respected, regardless of the prevailing political climate, and that the principles of democracy are upheld in every community.
