By Mark DaCosta- In a show of support, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has rallied behind the Toshao and residents of Chinese Landing in their ongoing struggle to defend their titled lands against encroachment. The issue has escalated as community members have reported the unlawful intrusion of heavy machinery into their territory without consent, leading to a peaceful stand by the residents. This delicate situation highlights the broader concerns surrounding land rights and governmental accountability in our nation.
Sherod Duncan, an APNU parliamentarian, emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating:
“Their concerns are serious and urgent: heavy machinery has reportedly entered Village Council territory without consent.”
This statement follows Duncan’s visit to the area, where he listened to the grievances of Toshao Nikita Miller and the community, who have vowed to protect their land rights under prevailing Guyanese laws. Their resolve is commendable, yet troubling that they must resort to such measures to safeguard their entitlements.
Duncan’s criticism extends to the governmental response, particularly towards Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat and Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Browne-Shadeek. He described the ministers’ inaction as “untenable,” citing that despite their ongoing meetings, the community is still left without a clear resolution.
Furthermore, he expressed concern that Minister Browne-Shadeek’s silence signifies a disregard for the pressing issues raised by Toshao Miller, stating:
“At a time of such tension, silence… amounts to an abandonment of the people whom these ministers are duty-bound to serve.”
The government’s failure to engage meaningfully with the concerns of Chinese Landing reflects a broader pattern of neglect towards Indigenous rights and an alarming lack of accountability from those in positions of power.
Duncan called for immediate governmental intervention to respect the authority of the Toshao and the Village Council, insisting that no activity continue without community consent. He insisted that:
“The people of Chinese Landing deserve safety, clean water, respect for their land rights, and decisive action.”
As the situation unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that the protection of Indigenous lands in our country is not only a legal obligation but also a moral one.
