by Nicole Telford
Linden, Guyana– A fact-finding mission by a US delegation in Georgetown ended in turmoil following disruptive actions by PPP supporter and Town Clerk candidate Lennox Gasper Witnesses described Gasper as belligerent and aggressive, causing a significant disturbance during the meeting.
The meeting, initially proceeding smoothly, took a tense turn when Lennox Gasper refused to yield the floor despite requests by the organizers, which then led to escalating tensions. Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler President/CEO, Organisation of World Leaders Former Chair, Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, in a comment to Village Voice news, stated that “it was unfortunate that the meeting became so chaotic. There was so much screaming and yelling that it caused apprehension and discomfort and we were not sure what would transpire or if our lives could be in peril. It is understandable for people to be fueled by passion because of the seriousness of the allegations however there has to be some modicum of respect and courtesy towards each other in the competing parties. What was witnessed tonight, if not harnessed properly, could lead to violence and civil unrest.”
Expressing deep concern amidst the chaos another member of the delegation Debra Bazemore, Georgia
House of Representative said “I was afraid and uncertain as to what would happen next.” Her apprehension was evident and the fear in the room was palpable since the team found themselves surrounded by yelling and screaming PPP supporters who were also blocking the exits.
Another delegate Marcus Coleman of Save Ourselves (SoS) echoed, “The tense atmosphere, the pain, hurt, and anger in the room indicates that there is a brewing undercurrent that could “explode” at any moment.” The situation worsened when Gasper followed another attendee around the room, in an attempt to seize the microphone, further intensifying the disorder.
The PPP’s orchestration of the disruption was apparent, as their supporters, devoid of any substantial documentation, resorted to yelling and screaming, overshadowing the meeting’s agenda. This incident not only disrupted the US delegation’s work but also raised serious concerns about the state of political discourse and public safety in the region and country. The fear and palpable anger in the room highlighted the deep-seated issues that threaten the fabric of democratic engagement in Guyana.
Region #10 Chairman Deron Adams said “Our town had the honor of hosting a delegation from the United States and that experience was tainted by the unprofessional conduct of the government imposed by so-called town clerk Lennox Gasper whose actions were most rabid and shameful, Gasper’s and several PPP candidates who accompanied him with their loud and disruptive tone was absolutely disrespectful.”
The Chairman further stated that “the delegates were subjected to the constant noise pollution, resulting in difficulty in understanding important information being conveyed.” The Regional chair believed Gasper’s attempt was to clearly undermine the facts earlier presented by both the Regional Chairman and Mayor. The chairman said “Gasper expressed a nonsensical position by stating that the delegation should not have been welcomed by the Mayor and the Regional Chairman. Such a perspective not only displays a lack of understanding of protocol but is also a disregard for the position and responsibilities of our esteemed offices.”
The Regional Chairman noted that It is disheartening to witness that attempt to undermine the authority and respect deserved by any elected official. The Regional Chairman said however “the dossier handed over to the delegation included copies of contracts awarded to PPP Councilors who were Peoples Progressive Civic Candidates in the recent Local Government Elections along with their names and photos in their red emblazon PPP/C Tee Shirts.”
