By Mark DaCosta- Guyana stands at a precarious juncture. The nation finds itself in a paradox where immense wealth from huge oil revenues contrasts sharply with a political landscape marked by exclusion and division. In a recent commentary-June 14, 2026- Lincoln Lewis, the General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress, articulates these concerns with profound urgency. As the leading advocate for workers in Guyana and the Caribbean, he warns that genuine national prosperity cannot exist alongside the marginalisation of broad segments of the population.
The General Secretary highlights that while our country’s national budget reaches an unprecedented G$1.558 trillion in 2026, signaling a potential multi-trillion-dollar economy on the horizon, many citizens feel disconnected from the political processes that dictate their lives. He states, “This is a contradiction that should concern every citizen, for national prosperity means little when large sections of the nation are excluded from the decisions that shape their future.” This assertion underscores a growing sentiment among the populace — an urgency to confront the exclusionary tactics of political elites that substantially undermine our democratic principles.
The relationship between the government and the opposition, as well as between the government and civil society, is increasingly strained. Lewis condemns the current operational dynamic where “political loyalty is rewarded while dissenting voices are ignored.” This prevailing culture of exclusion reveals itself in various forms, particularly in the appointments to state boards and commissions, where an evident disregard for inclusive representation limits the functionality of vital national institutions. He cautions that if this trend persists, even the proposed Development Bank could devolve into an instrument of partisan control, rather than serving its intended purpose for all citizens.
The statistic that nearly a quarter of the voting population abstained from the polls in the last elections cannot be overlooked. “These are facts that must no longer be ignored,” Lewis says, stating a reality that must prompt reflection and action. His acknowledgment that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) received only half of the votes cast underlines the importance of representing the entire electorate, not just those who supported the current governing body. The activist emphasises that the election results confer a responsibility to govern for all, not solely for the majority, warning that misunderstanding this principle “misrepresents both the spirit of democracy and the obligations that come with political office.”
For far too long, the political climate in our nation has been dominated by a culture of disregard for the voices of those opposing the current government. The imbalance created when narrow parliamentary majorities are treated as a mandate for unilateral governance needs urgent correction. Lewis highlights the constitutional framework of our country, particularly Article 13, which calls for an “inclusionary democracy.” He stresses that “the time has come to make Article 13 a living reality rather than a constitutional ornament quoted only when convenient.”
Citizens are increasingly voicing their concerns, and there is a definite sense of isolation among various societal groups — workers, pensioners, youth, and everyday citizens feel silenced and overlooked. “This approach to governance breeds mistrust, division, and alienation,” the General Secretary warns. As the nation grapples with these pressing issues, he insists that no plan to establish a state-owned Development Bank should progress without robust public scrutiny. While he acknowledges the necessity of such an institution, he stresses the imperative for transparency regarding its governance and management.
The resources intended for the Development Bank must serve the people, not simply the ruling party’s interests. Lewis strongly advocates that “the resources that will capitalise this institution do not belong to the government,” asserting that these belong to the citizens of our nation. He argues that every farmer, worker, small business owner, and taxpayer should have a say in how these resources are handled to foster confidence in what should be a public institution.
However, the reality is that trust in public institutions is waning, as many in positions of authority appear to prioritise their interests or those of their political leaders over the collective good. Lewis points to this “arrogance” as a key factor contributing to a “widening trust deficit” between public institutions and the populace. He insists that this disconnect must not be ignored, as it only serves to deepen societal divisions and reinforce perceptions that institutions are subservient to political interests rather than dedicated to serving the public.
The call for a representation that reflects all sectors of society in the Development Bank’s board is imperative. Lewis articulates a vision for a governance structure that encompasses not just government appointees but also includes representatives from the opposition, labour unions, and other vital segments of civil society. Principles of transparency, accountability, and public trust must be at the core of this initiative to ensure that access to developmental financing is not contingent upon political patronage.
As Lewis passionately declares, “This country belongs to all of us, not to politicians.” The Constitution echoes this sentiment by mandating shared governance and acknowledging various stakeholders, including trade unions like the Guyana Trades Union Congress, in decision-making. The need for collective engagement among all political factions is more crucial than ever, compelling a commitment to a system that genuinely reflects our democratic aspirations.
The time has come for citizens and political leaders alike to rally together, as Lewis encourages, to advocate for a governance structure that bridges divides and ensures that “the spirit and letter of our Constitution” are upheld. For as long as the regime continues to exclude significant segments of society, the call to action will remain a vital responsibility for all engaged in the pursuit of democracy and equality.
