The Alliance for Change (AFC) has expressed alarm at the breakdown of the guardrails of democracy in Guyana. Member of Parliament (MP), Ms. Juretha Fernandes, speaking at the party’s recent press conference noted the erosion of democratic norms and institutions undermines the foundation of a free and just society.
Pointing out the rule of law, respect for human rights, and freedom of expression are essential pillars of democracy, and any threats to these principles must be taken seriously, the MP said the growing lack of oversight and accountability are contributing to the state of affairs.
Whilst acknowledging concern for the challenges faced by independent institutions such as the media, and civil society in ensuring good governance, Fernandes called on citizens to get involved in the quest of ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.
“The growing lack of accountability and oversight in Guyana is more serious now than ever before, as the government’s failure to ensure proper checks and balances in financial management is a leading cause of corruption, mismanagement of public funds, and a loss of trust in government institutions.”
Noting that although it is imperative the government plays its role in institutions responsible for financial oversight, particularly parliamentary committees, citizens cannot leave government at its own device.
Fernandes listed the following as evidence of government’s non-compliance with democratic principles:-
- ” The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has been under attack by the PPP/C government since their return to office. Starting from the removal of the Chair of the PAC, David Patterson, then to the amendment to the standing order to change the quorum of the PAC. The AFC warned against both actions and today we are witnessing the reason behind such actions. Since the amendment to the standing order that required three members present to have a quorum to now require that two members from government, two from opposition and the chair must be present to constitute a quorum, the PAC meeting has been cancelled 12 times. All on the account of the PPP/C members’ absence.
- ” The functioning of the PAC is crucial to ensuring financial oversight and it is concerning that the PAC has not been meeting regularly especially with an accumulated backlog of 3 years of Auditor General’s reports still to be examined. This delays the crucial process of ensuring accountability and transparency in the government’s financial management, which is essential for good governance. It is essential that the committee meets regularly and expeditiously examines the reports to ensure that any irregularities or misuse of public funds are identified and addressed promptly.”
The PAC is the parliamentary body that oversees government spending and brings before the committee government officials to answer questions and also make recommendations for corrective actions.
The committee must fulfil its duty to the people of Guyana and ensure that public resources are being used for the benefit of the nation, Fernandes stated.
Appealing to non-government institutions and citizens to discharge their civic duty in the nation’s body politic Guyanese are being reminded “citizens also have a role to play in ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of public funds. The media, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders must remain vigilant and actively monitor government spending. Citizens must also demand access to information about government finances and hold elected officials accountable for their actions.”
A prime example of the PPP/C’s government lack of transparency is the current E-ID that saw a contract being signed without any parliamentary oversight or supporting legislation, and no public consultation, the MP noted.
The AFC, she said, continues to call for full accountability into this transaction that is sunk in secrecy and calls on the PPP to stop spending taxpayers dollars haphazardly. “Major questions on data integration, data protection, privacy, are yet to be answered by government. “
Making known the importance of financial accountability to good governance, Fernandes pointed out “the lack of financial oversight and accountability is a significant challenge for Guyana’s development and it is crucial that the government takes urgent action to address these issues and ensure that public funds are used effectively and efficiently for the benefit of all Guyanese citizens.”
