By Mark DaCosta- In a fervent plea to the nation, Lincoln Lewis, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), has denounced the catastrophic fire that decimated the organisation’s headquarters and its educational wing, Critchlow Labour College (CLC), as a deliberate act of sabotage aimed at dismantling the pillars of the labour movement in our country.
This latest incident, which occurred on July 31, 2025, follows an equally disturbing fire earlier in March, raising serious concerns about the motives behind these destructive events and leaving many to wonder whether they are the result of an orchestrated attack on workers’ rights.
The GTUC, a significant institution in Guyana’s socio-economic landscape, has historically championed the rights of workers, advocating for fair wages, improved working conditions, and social justice. Founded in 1943, the GTUC has played an instrumental role in shaping labour policies and has been at the forefront of many critical campaigns for workers’ rights.
Its educational arm, the Critchlow Labour College, has served as a vital training ground for countless individuals seeking to advance their professional lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Over the past five decades, the CLC has provided education and skills training to thousands across diverse backgrounds, enabling them to access higher education and better employment opportunities.
In his statement, Lewis confidently asserted that these attacks are not merely assaults on the GTUC but rather a broader attack on the very essence of independent labour in Guyana. He underscored the dire implications of such actions, suggesting they are attempts to undermine the progress of all workers and the fundamental principles of democracy and freedom that the GTUC embodies.
“This is not just a fire; it is an attempt to extinguish the light of progress that our organisation has brought to the people of our nation,” he declared emphatically.
Lewis called upon every citizen to awaken to the grim reality unfolding before them, as the repercussions of these attacks resonate beyond the walls of the GTUC and the CLC. He urged all Guyanese to recognise their shared responsibility in standing against threats to the labour movement, emphasising that the GTUC’s fight for justice and opportunity is intrinsically linked to the well-being of the entire population.
Amidst calls for solidarity, Lewis reminded the public of the rich legacy that the GTUC represents. He referenced iconic figures such as Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, Cheddi Jagan, and Jane Phillips-Gay, whose contributions have laid the groundwork for the rights and freedoms enjoyed today. “The ideals these leaders fought for remain relevant; their influence is woven into the fabric of our nation,” he added, urging all to draw inspiration from their steadfast resolve.
Following the devastating fire, President Irfaan Ali has vowed government support in the rebuilding efforts for the GTUC and CLC. Yet, nearly four months later, Lewis has expressed frustration over the delay in receiving the findings of the investigation into the earlier fire, calling on the Guyana Fire Department to expedite its report.
He believes transparency is essential to restoring faith in a system that seems to falter when faced with challenges to its integrity. Furthermore, Lewis took the opportunity to thank the courageous firefighters and local residents who joined efforts to mitigate the damage caused by the inferno, highlighting the spirit of communal support in times of crisis.
The GTUC stands resolute in its mission and commitment to rebuilding, both physically and in terms of community spirit. Lewis urged all affiliates and supporters to remain vigilant and united in the face of adversity, accentuating that their collective strength would be instrumental in overcoming the challenges ahead. In his closing remarks, he reminded the nation that the course of independent labour will not be deterred, as the unwavering spirit of resilience among workers in Guyana remains unbroken.
As Lincoln Lewis continues to navigate these turbulent waters, his leadership in the labour movement serves as a beacon of hope for Guyanese workers.
