A few days ago, I attended a gathering where several heavyweight businessmen were present, individuals known to be aligned with the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP). It was not a political meeting, nor was it a forum for policy debate. Yet, in the course of casual conversation, a discussion emerged, one that I believe deserves public reflection, not because it is proven fact, but because of the seriousness of what was alleged.
During that conversation, I overheard claims that the Chief Executive Officer of Guyana’s Public Procurement Commission (PPC), Mr. Michael Singh, is allegedly shielded from scrutiny by President Dr. Irfaan Ali himself. Those speaking went further, alleging that corruption within the PPC and National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) is widespread and that “drawbacks” or bribes are routinely paid by contractors when contracts are awarded. These claims were made casually, almost confidently, as though such practices were accepted as the cost of doing business.
I am not presenting evidence, nor am I declaring guilt. What I am sharing is the reality that such conversations are taking place among individuals who operate close to the corridors of power. That alone should deeply concern any citizen who believes in transparency and good governance.
Mr. President, only weeks ago you rightly raised alarm about corruption in the issuance of driver’s licences. While corruption at any level must be addressed, many would agree that such cases pale in comparison to the magnitude of alleged wrongdoing within the Public Procurement Commission and National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, the very body tasked with safeguarding fairness, accountability, and value for money in public spending.
Public procurement is where billions of dollars pass through the hands of the state. If there is even a perception that this system is compromised, or that its officials are protected from oversight due to political connections, then the credibility of the entire governance framework is corrupted.
Mr. President, leadership is not only about defending one’s record; it is about confronting uncomfortable truths. If your name is being invoked—rightly or wrongly—as protection for alleged corruption, then it is in your own interest, and in the interest of the country, to ensure that an independent, transparent investigation clears the air of your name.
Guyana stands at a critical juncture in its development. The people deserve assurance that their resources are managed honestly and that no individual or institution is beyond scrutiny. Silence in the face of such allegations only allows suspicion to grow and confidence to erode.
This is not a call for condemnation, but a call for courage. The real corruption is not always found in small, visible infractions, but often in the large, quiet rooms where power and money meet. It is there that the brightest light of accountability must shine.
