Terrence Campbell and Nigel Hughes owe no one an apology

Dear Editor,

I wish to respond to Dr. Randy Persaud’s recent article that was published in Demerara waves 24 December, 2024 , titled “Terrence Campbell and Nigel Hughes owe Guyanese Indians an apology,” seems to be built on a distorted understanding of the issues at hand. To suggest that these individuals owe an apology is not only misplaced but also fails to acknowledge the broader context of the political landscape in Guyana, particularly under the leadership of Bharrat Jagdeo and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

Let me be clear: Terrence Campbell and Nigel Hughes owe no one an apology. Their statements, particularly those regarding Jagdeo’s leadership, were rooted in facts. Campbell specifically referenced Jagdeo in the context of his leadership, and his criticisms were aimed solely at the former president’s policies, not at any specific ethnic group. To insinuate otherwise is to misunderstand the crux of the argument.

If anyone owes an apology, it is the PPP and Bharrat Jagdeo. It is a painful fact that during Jagdeo’s presidency, there were numerous instances of injustice towards various communities, including Africans, Amerindians, and even Indians. The Lusignan and Bartica massacres, which were carried out under Jagdeo’s administration, left deep scars in the Indian community. The PPP’s role in disregarding the suffering of these communities can not be overlooked.

Moreover, the horrific fire that claimed the lives of 19 indigenous girls in Mahdia, the bulldozing of African homes in Mocha on the East Bank of Demerara and the forced displacement of Indigenous and African peoples are reminders of the PPP’s troubling legacy. The party has often exploited vulnerable communities for political gain without regard for their well-being or human dignity.

Dr. Persaud’s attempt to divert attention from these grave injustices and place the blame on individuals who dare to speak out against Jagdeo’s leadership is both illogical and dangerous. It detracts from the real issues of accountability and reparations owed to the African, Indigenous, and some Indian communities who have suffered under the PPP’s policies.

Terrence Campbell’s remarks about Jagdeo should not be seen as an attack on any ethnic group. He was simply pointing out the failures and wrongdoings of a leader who continues to hold significant influence in Guyana. It is crucial to separate the critique of a politician from the criticism of an entire ethnic group, something that Dr. Persaud appears to have overlooked.

Instead of calling for apologies where none are warranted, it is time to hold the PPP and Bharrat Jagdeo accountable for the historical and ongoing injustices that have impacted all Guyanese, regardless of ethnicity. The conversation should focus on seeking justice, truth, and healing, not on shifting blame to those who speak out against systemic wrongs of the PPP.

Yours truly,
Pt.Ubraj Narine, JP, COA
Former Staff Sgt.(GDF), Mayor City of Georgetown