Dear editor,
Democracy rests on a simple but powerful principle: government exists to serve the people, not the reverse. But in Guyana, it appears the people’s role is to serve corrupt politicians and other officials. Corruption is endemic and the public is abused. Corruption undermines democracy by placing the interests of selfish politicians and other officials, their friends, families, favored ones, and a select few in private sector above the public good. In Guyana, where sudden wealth, rapid economic growth and newfound oil wealth have transformed the country’s prospects, corruption has become a serious threat to democratic governance and to lives. Almost 100 lost their lives in the MV Barima incident because of corrupt practices.
Politicians, other officials, and their pals misuse public office for personal gain. They work in cahoots with crooked businessmen. Their corrupt practice weakens institutions, erodes public confidence, distorts economic development, and widens inequality. When citizens believe that contracts are awarded through favoritism to Ministers themselves or to those fronting for them, and when public resources are mismanaged, or when resources are siphoned off, political faith in democratic governance declines.
A democratic system depends on transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. These principles are tested whenever allegations of corruption arise. Even when wrongdoing is only perceived rather than proven, public trust can suffer. A democracy cannot function effectively if citizens lose confidence in elections, public institutions, civil service, bureaucracy, impartiality of the justice system. In Guyana, the entire system is compromised. Corruption is systemic and endemic.
The country’s expanding oil and gas sector presents both opportunities and risks. Increased national revenue has the potential to improve healthcare, education, infrastructure, and employment. Guyana is experiencing sudden resource wealth and increased corruption. There is a lack of oversight mechanisms. Strong financial management, independent auditing, open procurement processes, and public access to information, all essential safeguards against corruption, are weak. Government goes after independent thinkers, civic society, and the media. Trolls go after critics.
The media, civil society organizations, and ordinary citizens all have important roles to play in protecting democracy and combating corruption. Investigative journalism, whistleblower protections, and civic engagement help expose wrongdoing and encourage accountability. Likewise, independent institutions—including the courts, anti-corruption agencies, and parliamentary oversight committees—must be adequately resourced and free from political interference.
Political leaders, regardless of party affiliation, must recognize that fighting corruption is not simply a campaign promise but a democratic obligation. Transparency in campaign financing, public declarations of assets by officials, and consistent enforcement of anti-corruption laws can strengthen public confidence and demonstrate a commitment to good governance.
Ultimately, corruption is one of the most serious threats to democracy in Guyana because it weakens the relationship between citizens and the state. If left unchecked, it can reduce political participation, fuel social division, and undermine national development. It can also trigger rebellion.
The future of Guyana’s democracy will depend not only on economic success but also on the nation’s collective commitment to honesty, transparency, and the rule of law. Democracy flourishes where integrity prevails, and protecting that integrity is a responsibility shared by government and citizens alike. If there was not corrupt practices, lives would not have been lost in the MV Barima incident.
Government must appoint an independent anti corruption czar to combat corruption. He should be chosen from among nominees of the opposition leader. His office should be fully funded. This will help to curtail corruption, increase good governance, promote democracy, and save lives.
Yours truly,
Tamesh Roopnarine
