Dear Editor,
President Irfaan Ali has repeatedly spoken of transparency, accountability, and good governance. Today, those very principles are being tested by questions surrounding the ownership and development of his farm.
These are not idle rumours or political distractions. They are legitimate questions that deserve clear, direct, and verifiable answers from the holder of the nation’s highest office. The office of the President belongs to the people, and with it comes an obligation to be open about matters that affect public trust.
Mr. President, you have since publicly invited Guyanese to visit your farm. You should now honour that promise. Throw open the gates. Invite the media, civil society, religious leaders, farmers, and ordinary citizens to see the property for themselves. If everything has been acquired lawfully and above board, then transparency can only strengthen your credibility.
Do not leave Guyanese in the dark with unanswered questions while allegations continue to circulate. Silence does not build confidence. Evasion does not inspire trust. The longer these questions remain unanswered, the greater the cloud hanging over your presidency.
There is another question that only you can answer.
When you look beyond the walls of State House and beyond the boundaries of your farm, what do you see? Do you see the market vendor struggling to feed a family? The pensioner choosing between food and medication? The young graduate unable to find meaningful employment? The sugar worker, the public servant, the security guard, and the single mother trying to survive while prices continue to rise?
Guyana is celebrated as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, but for far too many citizens prosperity remains a promise rather than a reality. Economic growth means little to families who cannot make ends meet.
Mr. President, does your conscience ever trouble you while living so comfortably when so many Guyanese continue to endure hardship? Does it concern you that the contrast between the lifestyles of those in power and the daily struggles of ordinary citizens is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore?
Public office is a sacred trust, not a pathway to privilege beyond public scrutiny. Leadership demands more than speeches and ribbon cuttings. It demands humility, accountability, and the willingness to answer difficult questions honestly.
You have the opportunity to settle this matter once and for all. Keep your promise. Invite the people to visit your farm. Disclose the facts surrounding its acquisition, financing, and development. Let transparency—not political spin—be your defence.
The Guyanese people are not asking for a favour. They are asking for accountability from a President elected to serve them. History will judge not only what leaders built, but whether they were honest with the people who entrusted them with power.
Yours truly,
Indar Deonarine
