By Mark DaCosta- The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Coalition has expressed profound condolences following the tragic explosion that shook our nation on Sunday, 26th October, leaving behind a trail of devastation and loss. The Coalition extended its sympathies particularly to the family of Soraya Bourne and expressed solidarity with Ms. Samantha Roach during this challenging period. Beyond mourning the bereaved, the coalition reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the welfare of all victims and insists that state resources must be mobilised to assist them promptly.
In a thoughtful address, the APNU highlighted the heroic actions of Ms. Shondell Smith, who played a critical role in averting further calamity during this distressing incident. They emphatically termed her an “unsung hero” and acknowledged the importance of community vigilance in safeguarding our citizens. The Coalition gave a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding national security, particularly in light of the apparent involvement of foreign nationals linked to explosives reported recently. Such revelations have understandably caused rising anxiety among the populace regarding safety within our borders.
The APNU has called attention to the pressing need for credible leadership within the Guyana Police Force as a means of rebuilding public trust. There is an urgent requirement, they argue, for coordinated efforts to enhance national safety infrastructure, which should ideally transcend partisan politics and focus on the security of the nation. The Coalition speaker stated, “we will continue to represent and highlight citizens’ concerns in a responsible way,” marking their determination to ensure that the voices of everyday citizens are heard and prioritised.
In examining the broader implications of the recent violence, the APNU stressed that these incidents reflect deeper immigration and national security challenges that should seize the government’s attention. They advocate for robust border policies designed specifically to counter illegal immigration and other security threats. Citing the humanitarian dynamics leading to the influx of Venezuelans, the APNU pointed out that various external factors necessitate a strategic response from the government. They voiced, “the life of every citizen is of paramount importance and our security is non-negotiable and transcends political partisanship.”
The apprehension felt by many citizens in our nation amidst reports of such violence has fostered an ongoing national dialogue on immigration and security. The APNU, having consistently raised these issues within the National Assembly, has implored the government to engage with its positions concerning these vital topics. They drew attention to the urgent need for a comprehensive security plan, stating, “national security, affected by the recent explosion and increasing cross-border movement, can no longer be treated as a secondary concern.”
Acknowledging the threats to our citizenry, the APNU has urged vigilance and cooperation among the populace. In a bid to innovate on public safety, they reiterated the significance of citizen involvement, encouraging wider public awareness campaigns to promote the imperative of being alert and responsive. The Coalition noted the existing framework for a “Safe City” initiative initiated during their previous administration, which they believe could be beneficial in expanding police operations across the nation.
The geographical vulnerability of our borders, particularly the lengthy stretch alongside Venezuela, has raised alarms for the APNU. They proclaimed a comprehensive border security plan is a necessity to deter future incidents and protect citizens from unlawful activities that could arise. The Coalition is pushing for measures that should include advanced technological tools to identify potential threats, enhancements in standard operational procedures, and rigorous training for police forces operating in sensitive areas.
In an assertive tone, the APNU expressed the belief that our nation’s significant oil wealth ought to be allocated towards modernising our security infrastructure, emphasising that finding solutions must be a collective journey rather than a unilateral task. “No single administration holds a monopoly on ideas for protecting our people,” they stated, calling for inclusivity in the search for pragmatic solutions.
As the APNU outlines its Shadow Cabinet assignments, they made it clear that they will vigorously scrutinise the government’s actions regarding transparency and accountability in governance. They are set to hold the administration responsible for its obligations to the citizens and will work to ensure that the security of every citizen remains a top priority. The Coalition elaborated on their commitment, asserting that “this moment demands decisive, coordinated action to ensure the safety and security of every citizen of Guyana.”
As the nation grapples with the repercussions of the recent explosion, the APNU has pledged to remain at the forefront of advocating for effective measures that ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens, showing an unwavering commitment to addressing immigration and security concerns that plague our communities. The landscape of national security, as defined by the APNU, signifies an essential battleground where they will continue to apply pressure on the ruling administration to uphold the safety of the citizenry whilst curbing the threats that linger at our borders.
The following is the Shadow Portfolio Assignments:
- Dr. Terrence Campbell – Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Health
- Dr. Dexter Todd – Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs
- Ganesh Mahipaul – Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance and Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development
- Riaz Zakeer Rupnarain – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Saiku Andrews – Ministry of Public Works and Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation
- Coretta McDonald, A.A. – Ministry of Education and Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning
- Vinceroy H. Jordan – Ministry of Agriculture and Office of the Prime Minister
- Juretha Fernandes – Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce
- Sherod Avery Duncan – Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Housing;
- Nima Natacha Flue-Bess – Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture
- Sharma Raheem Solomon – Ministry of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation and Ministry of Natural Resources
- Dr. David Hinds – Ministry of Human Services and Social Security
