As we enter a new year it is customary that we review the previous one and plan for the new one unfolding. It is imperative to critically reflect on the state of affairs in our beloved country- Guyana- a nation oozing with great potential, particularly in its emerging oil and gas sector, and abundant natural resources, including gold, diamond, semi- precious stones, fresh water, fertile agricultural lands, and a massive rainforest. However, the past 12 months have been sadly marked by a disturbing cocktail of governance failures that have affect the fundamentals of our democratic society and left citizens bewildered and disheartened.
One of the most noticeable indicators of the government’s underperformance is its treatment of public servants, the backbone of any functional society. Despite the monumental challenges faced by the workforce, including the harsh work environment in which they are called to do their official duties, the government’s decision to grant a mere 6.5% increase in wages and salaries reflects a profound disdain for the contributions of these individuals to the economy. Such an inadequate adjustment, a mere bagatelle, fails to keep pace with the rising cost of living, casting a shadow of financial uncertainty over the public sector.
Adding fuel to the flames of public discontent, this year witnessed the tragic destruction of numerous schools and other public buildings by fire. The one that has been etched in our collective mind as a nation is the inferno at Mahdia that claimed the lives of 19 children, in May of this year. We are not sure about the quality of support those affected families have been receiving from the government. However, what we are sure about is that neither the Minister of Education nor the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development has been questioned or held accountable, in any way, for that unnecessary blaze. It was Alan Dershowiz who said: “There is no perfect justice, just as there is no absolute in ethics. But there is perfect injustice, and we know it when we see it.”
More, the loss of these essential public facilities not only disrupts the education system but also highlights a stunning lack of foresight and preparedness on the part of the government. The inability to protect critical infrastructure raises questions about the competence of those entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding public assets. At the end of the day, it is taxpayers, who must foot the bill to rebuild those facilities, at astronomical costs. And yet, the government demonstrates a brash disrespect that restricts it from properly accounting to the people for those events.
Equally troubling, is the pervasive corruption that has tainted the award of state contracts, with cronies benefiting disproportionately. The brazen favouritism displayed in these dealings not only erodes public trust but also perpetuates a system of crony capitalism that undermines fair competition and stifles economic growth. Guyanese are still waiting on information on the investigation into the award of the Tepui contract which was awarded under questionable circumstances to a social media influencer with apparently special privileges to say whatever about whomever he pleases on his platform without consequence. Again, what is the status of the construction of the Primary school at Bamia/Amelia’s Ward, Linden? There are many more contracts, which remain far behind due completion dates, poorly executed or had to be terminated. As the government engages in the sordid dance of patronage the nation’s economic potential is being squandered for the benefit of a privileged few.
Notwithstanding the summit in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, earlier this month, between presidents Nicolas Maduro and Irfaan Ali on the border controversy, and the Argyle Declaration, the specter of military and political tensions along the western border continues to compound the challenges faced by our nation. The government’s inability to successfully navigate these complexities has heightened the sense of insecurity among citizens leaving them to grapple with the unsettling prospect of conflict at their doorstep. It is clear that, a prudent and strategic approach to international relations is indispensable for peace and stability of the nation.
But perhaps, the most telling consequence of the government’s underperformance is the aggravation of poverty in local communities across the country. According to a World Bank report over 30% of Guyanese live below the poverty line in extremely vulnerable local communities. Access to basic services, including health and education, is still challenge for citizens living in the hinterlands. As wealth from natural resources flows into the hands of a select few, the majority of citizens find themselves marginalised and economically disenfranchised. The chasm between the haves and the have- nots signals the urgent need for a comprehensive and equitable economic policy that prioritise the well- being of all Guyanese. As this year comes to an end Guyana stands at a crossroads.
The government’s lackluster performance in managing the burgeoning oil and gas sector, coupled with its gross negligence towards public servants, the destruction of public infrastructure, the corrosive effects of corruption, poses a serious threat to the sustainable development of our nation. The people of Guyana deserve a government that is accountable, transparent, and committed to the welfare of all its citizens. The PPP/C has consistently demonstrated that it is not interested in being that kind of government.
As we welcome 2024, it is imperative that the lessons of the past be heeded, and corrective measures taken to ensure a brighter future for Guyana. Wishing all Guyanese, the wisdom, will and strength to come together, stand up for good governance and work towards a better Guyana.
Long live Guyana!
