PPP mockery of Institutions

Mar 22, 2023 Letters

Dear Editor,

After a long time, an important constitutional body, Ethnic Relations Commission has finally been constituted. After 7 years break under PPP, the ERC was completely absent under the Ramotar regime. By this time, scores of criticism kept flooding the daily newspapers on corrupt practices that characterized a PPP government.

Therefore, an ERC presence then would have added more salt to the wounds. Then it came alive under President Granger time.

Fast forward 2023, nothing has changed. The new office bearers, majority has close affiliation to the party. It is clear that PPP does not want fair and balance views. During the consultation process, many groups were called and told which candidate to support. ERC would have had another opportunity to advance the position of ensuring that Guyana’s wealth is fairly distributed but this will not be the case. Like the previous Commission, this will be another talk shop, and toothless dog.

This time it’s going to be worse. It is well stocked with PPP loyalists. Further, it has persons who are working for government agencies, and they obviously will have to toe the line when serious matters will arise especially those that paints the government in a bad light. In essence, what Guyanese can expect is an ERC that will be defending PPP policy. This will undermine the work of the Commission. ERC will be tested on its stands on the farcical ‘One Guyana’ policy. In fact, it should study how race relations worsen with this policy, which has been nothing but a political tool.

But no one should be surprised, it is a norm for PPP to make mockery of bodies. Look at the Public Procurement Commission; another failing Commission. Look at the mess unfolding with Environmental Assessment Board appointees. The Integrity Commission and the Police Service Commission are both stocked with a number of persons who openly support PPP. There can never be impartiality and proper governance since they will all be caught up trying to make the government look good.

But this is business as usual in the circus regime of President Ali. We live in an era where criticism is a ‘crime.’

All eyes on the new ERC but not much of a surprise is in store. It has a chance to prove Guyanese otherwise. Unfortunately, these Commission will not be of any help to Guyanese.

Regards,

R. Singh

• Ethnic Relations Commission, Guyanese, R. Singh, Ramotar, regime