It is time for Donald Gajraj to go

Dear Editor,

Guyana bore witness to a heinous and despicable act, which was inflicted upon the highest elected regional official during the Region Four Regional Flag Raising ceremony, held in the premises of the Regional Democratic Council on the fateful day of Wednesday, 22nd February 2023. It was an affront to democracy, and such appalling disrespect must be met with immediate corrective action.

As the Regional Chairman concluded his opening remarks during the ceremony, he expressed his desire for love, unity, and togetherness, and being mindful of the male-dominated program, invited Hon. Catharine Hughes to give brief remarks. Unfortunately, chaos ensued. As the Regional Chairman Daniel Seeram extended the invitation to MP Hughes, REO Gajraj aggressively approached Chairman Seeram and snatched the microphone out of his hand. The entire incident has been captured on video, which has gone viral on social media. REO Gajraj clearly assaulted the Regional Chairman.

Donald Gajraj is a political appointee of the Government, and his actions reflect the views of the Government. If the Government does not take decisive action to reprimand and remove Gajraj from his position, it will only serve to confirm the suspicion that the much-touted ‘One Guyana’ mantra is nothing more than a hollow slogan, bereft of any real meaning. The people of Guyana demand and deserve better than this. It is imperative that we uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that elected officials are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Yours truly,

Ganesh Mahipaul, M.P.

Shadow Minister of Local Government and Regional Development