New Nation, February 2023

"Comrades, for more than half of my lifetime, you and I have walked together, worked together, lost together, won together. Have we not now the Will to Conquer?" (Will To Survive, August 15, 1983. Address to the 5th Biennial Congress)

Some takeaways from the Opposition Leader’s Budget Speech 2023

This year's budget presentation by Leader of the Opposition Mr. Aubrey C. Norton must be acclaimed as among the most visionary in recent decades in Guyana. It outlined a development philosophy, an economic framework, and specific measures to transform the country and the lives of its people. Understandably, given the time limit (and the absurd rulings of the Speaker of the House on "parliamentary language", the Opposition Leader could not present a complete blueprint. But what he did manage to introduce amply signaled the range of ideas he and the coalition are exploring.

There are several main takeaways from his inspiring presentation. We here highlight four.

ONE - the overarching thrust of putting people first in our development plan. To quote the Opposition Leader: "We will invest in our people. We in the APNU+AFC will pursue this strategy of ensuring our policies, programmes and projects are geared to improve the quality of life of our people - that is why we name it a people-centered programme. We believe that a sine qua non for development is the development of our human resources." He elaborated that this translated into such goals as poverty eradication, as guaranteed minimum liveable income for families, as food and nutrition security, as housing for all, as genuine cost of living relief, and as measures to create good-paying jobs.

TWO - growing the economy, particularly the nonoil sector. As the country continues to garner more oil revenues, a responsible government must emplace policies to avoid the natural resource curse (the situation where countries with an abundance of natural resources still perform badly economically, socially, and politically). A government must seek to create a diversified and robust economy. On this note, Mr Norton identified several proposals, such as: removing taxes for agro-processing and other manufacturing, expanding access to small to large business grants and loans, development of agriculture in all regions, attracting foreign investment, building new infrastructure not as corruption havens but to spur economic development, and continuous training of human resources.

THREE - a focus on youths. The Opposition Leader's presentation offered much for young people. Examples: guaranteed housing through our Rent-toOwn schemes; salary top-ups; a tuition-free University of Guyana and the writing-off of all university student debt; student stipends of no less than $50,000 for tertiary students; diverse training opportunities; and programs to promote sports, art and culture.

FOUR - A focus on communities, including Indigenous communities. To quote the Opposition Leader: "We will build sustainable communities, meaning communities with high quality educational, health, recreational and other modern facilities, potable water, electricity, roads and proper drainage…" He added: "We will promote community development and local leadership to unleash the talents and energies of our people in communities. In this regard, we will promote local democracy and take action to remove Party politics from local development and allow local authorities to function in keeping with the law and the needs of the people in their community."

Analysis and Opinions

Sale of carbon credits exposes the government's contempt for the indigenous population

opinion, the government possesses no such power. In so doing, the government trampled upon the rights of a large and growing section (13%) of our population without flinching. They stripped our people of their dignity. They disregarded the place of pride that we earned as a people. They believe that money will make us blind to the truth. This will never be.

For Mr. Jagdeo and the People's Progressive Party the sale of carbon credits is all about money. Money at their disposal to throw around in the grand voter procurement scheme and the accompanying propaganda blitz helps the PPP as it seeks to hoodwink citizens and the international onlookers, or so they believe.

For the large majority of Guyanese Indigenous Peoples, this issue of the sale of carbon credits exposes the government's contempt for the indigenous population. For our people it is not about money. It is about our heritage, our culture, our works over the generations, our rights, our dignity and our pride as a people. Had it been about money, we, or those who preceded us, would have harvested our forests to the last stump. We would have invited, and where they came uninvited we would have encouraged, miners to come into our lands to dig up the last grain of gold and pollute our waterways. We would have poisoned our streams, creeks, and rivers taking and consuming the last fish. We would have killed and eaten our animals to the last suckling.

Instead, we preserved, carefully managed and monitored our natural resources so that now, Guyana can boast of an eighty percent (80%) forest canopy with a deforestation rate of 0.4% to 0.5% per annum. Now, we can boast as a country that we possess a large amount of the world's remaining fresh water, being a part of the Amazon Region (Guiana Shield) which boasts of having 20% of the world's remaining fresh water. We can boast of having an animal kingdom of giants: the harpy eagle, giant otter, giant anteater, Jaguar, the arapaima to name a few.

We see our purpose here on Mother Earth as her protector. We can do no less for she provides for all of our needs.

This government has no respect for anything, which does not serve its narrow purpose of personal enrichment. It has no regard for anyone who it perceives as not supporting its separatist, political objectives. Our Indigenous peoples, in large majority, want our ancestral and contemporary works recognised and respected. We want our rights, not just on pieces of paper and conveniently talked about; we want our rights respected.

The Indigenous Peoples' right to Selfdetermination and right to Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) are not merely aspirational. These rights are enforceable and ought to be enforced, and highly regarded by Guyana, a State Party to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). The PPP's blatant disregard for these rights is, therefore, reprehensible, and we reject it in the strongest terms possible.

The State has overreached. The State has stretched its manipulative hand into private properties - titled landsowned by Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous Peoples have inalienable ownership over some 18.5% of Guyana's lands. The State negotiated the sale of carbon credits using (some) lands owned by these private citizens, without their consent. In fact, the PPP government, which controls the State machinery, failed, refused and/or neglected to consult with the legal owners of lands before engaging the potential purchaser. In my humble

Our people never agreed to the sale of carbon credits in the first place. How can the PPP now ask our people to agree to a miserly 15% share from the proceeds of our assets? What madness is this?

It is clear why the PPP continues to resist the call for amending the Amerindian Act. It is equally clear why the PPP is opposed to legally recognising Indigenous District Councils. A legally recognised District Council, such as the South Rupununi District Council, may have the power to negotiate and sell its own carbon credits, earning directly from its legally owned assets. Mr. Jagdeo and the PPP refuse to recognise the Moruca and Upper Mazaruni District Council and labels the SRDC "politically affiliated" so that they can continue to manipulate and dominate the few handpicked members of the National Toshaos' Council in advancing their partisan agenda.

Mr. Jagdeo and the PPP are violating basic provisions of the existing Amerindian Act. The Act provides that the Village General Meeting is the highest decision making forum in a Village. The Act empowers the Village Council to manage the assets (including land and money) on behalf of, and in the best interest of, the Village. The PPP has ignored these provisions of statutory law.

As a prerequisite to receiving the money, Mr. Jagdeo has instructed that special bank accounts be set up and special finance committees established to manage this money. In so doing, he has usurped the functions of both the elected Village Council and the Village General Meeting. This borders on executive lawlessness and has all the trappings of a dictatorship. No one is against money being earned and distributed to the citizenry. The real question is this: Is money of greater importance than citizens' rights and the rule of law? That said the conversation about what percentage of the carbon credit revenues is enough for indigenous Guyanese is a decoy. The real conversation must start at the beginning. How did we get to this point? Who authorised the PPP regime to negotiate the sale? Who owns the forests, which were traded? Is it right to ignore the owners and sell their property then offer them a pittance? Settle those issues, then, let the conversation regarding what percentage is appropriate begin. For now, place a hold on the carnival of corruption.

Mr. Norton's budget presentation covered several other development issues of national significance. Throughout, the speech was energized by its philosophy of putting people first. As such, it rejected the PPP's trickle-down economics (money for its friends, families, and favorites). Instead, it embraced a bottom-up, middle-out development model.

POLITICAL

Racial attacks on school children in Region #5 - Afro-Guyanese students physically assaulted and verbally abused

On the 17th of February 2023, during the instructional period, the peace of Woodley Park Secondary School was disturbed by some residents of Woodley Park Village, West Coast Berbice. During this disturbance (which was a continuation of a similar occurrence on the 16th of February 2023 on the entrance streets to the school) AfroGuyanese students were physically assaulted and verbally abused as seen in a video emanating from parents of students from the above-mentioned school. Persons were seen armed with pieces of wood walking around the compound of the school as parents and teachers confronted the intruders in the presence of students. In the said video recording one student complained to a teacher that he was cuffed.

Subsequently, photographs from parents sent to Member of Parliament Mr. Vinceroy Jordan showed the severity of physical injuries to the hands, feet and head of the affected students. One parent stated on her Facebook page, “After physically abusing the children they said this is a coolie area black man not supposed to be here.”

While parents and teachers tried their utmost to put the intruders out of the compound, they vowed in the presence of all to return after lunch on Friday 17th of February 2023. This matter was then reported to the Department of

Mr. Vinceroy Jordan, MP

Education, Region No. 5 while the parents reported the matter to the Police.

It is reported that as the Villagers promised to return the following day, a larger gang of villagers converged at the school and attacked only AfroGuyanese students this time causing bodily injuries, disrupting school sessions for the remainder of the day by entering the school compound halfdressed and consuming alcoholic substances. There was no Security Guard at the school.

A follow up on the reports that was made by teachers and parents at the

No social justice with increasing poverty and inequality

We, in the PNCR and the Coalition, continue to express our alarm over the growing poverty and inequality in Guyana under the PPP. The PPP has presented no plan to directly eliminate these twin evils. Growing food inflation, unemployment, exclusion, and suppressed wages are shrinking the disposable income of families. The PPP's sporadic and patronizing cash transfer scheme will not work. Its trickle-down economics (money for its friends, families, and favorites) will not work.

The PNCR and the Coalition are proposing a people-centred development strategy --one that puts ordinary people first by building from the bottom up and the middle out.

Fort Wellington Police Station indicated that no arrest was made. Senior Officials of the school visited the Education Department seeking immediate help but at that time no Education Officer was present to give guidance while the Regional Education Officer could not be reached by telephone.

The Ministry of Education through the Department of Education has failed to visit the school or the affected children and parents so as to give guidance on this matter. This leaves the parents and teachers with more questions of their safety and security of their well-being both at school and while traversing the community to get to school. Member of Parliament Vinceroy Jordan met and spoke with several teachers, parents, and students who all expressed fear for their lives and safety at school. To date the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Home Affairs have not visited the affected persons nor issued a statement on the matter.

We are, therefore, calling on the Ministers of Education and Home Affairs to immediately investigate this matter and put mechanisms in place so as to ensure that instructional periods are not further disturbed, and the parents and students can feel safe returning to school.

We believe that the Rights of the Child Commission as an independent body has an active role to play in this partic-

ular matter in ensuring they advocate for the rights and interests of children and the young people affected in this heinous crime.

Further, we wish to call on the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) which has a constitutional function, to foster a sense of security among all ethnic groups while encouraging and promoting the understanding, acceptance and tolerance of diversity in all aspects of national life and promoting full participation by all ethnic groups in the social, economic, cultural and political life of the people and to investigate and report on matters contrary to this function. We call on the Ethnic Relations Commission to investigate this matter and make the findings of this matter public.

We vehemently condemn the actions of some residents of Woodley Park, West Coast Berbice, that is, assault causing bodily harm and emotional abuse to our students in school at Woodley Park Secondary School and causing public terror in the community. The nonaction of the PPP/C administration and the police is sending the wrong signal and might very well encourage the further terrorizing of the affected children and embolden the aggressors. It should also be noted that the act of terrorizing one ethnic group will exacerbate racial tension and does not augur well for ethnic unity.

What drives the attitude of the PPP towards the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)

Clearly, the PPP is intentionally slowing down the work of the PAC to keep it from reaching the accounts of the PPP in office. The Stabroek News editorial fully describes all its tricks. But we, the citizens, must note the following. The PPP is not only trying to hide its corruption and other financial crimes from public scrutiny. No, its attitude comes from a deeper place than that. The PPP actually believes it is above accounting to the people. It believes that as self-claimed lord and master of Guyana, it is a total eye-pass for the PAC to be reviewing and asking it questions about its spending. This, we must not accept.

APNU walkabouts and Public Meetings around Georgetown

APNU is currently conducting a series of walkabouts and public meetings around Georgetown to sensitise the public on the present situation in the country and to address important issues and matters of concern to them. Everyone are invited to these meetings as the struggle continues for a better Guyana under our national motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny!”

Below are photos of our last two public meetings at Aubrey Barker Road, Last Entrance, North Ruimveldt on Wednesday 15th February and Vlissengen Road Square, in front of the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost on Sunday 19th February.

North Ruimveldt

Ms. Nima Flue-Bess, MP

A section of the crowd on Aubrey Barker Road, North Ruimveldt.

Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP

East Ruimveldt

A section of the crowd in front of the police outpost, East Ruimveldt

Mr. Elson Low, Economist and Executive member of the PNCR Georgetown District

Another section of the crowd in front of the police outpost, East Ruimveldt

Mr. Kibwe Copeland, GYSM Chairman (ag)

BURNHAM

Activities launched to mark the Centennial Birth Anniversary of Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, OE, SC

There are a number of early landmarks in the life of Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham that exemplified his emergent stellar and iconic personality. In 1936, he won the Centenary Exhibition and Government Junior Scholarship. In 1937, he won the Percival Exhibition award, and in 1942, he won the British Guiana Scholarship, the highest scholastic award in the country, at that time.

Recognition of his leadership potential was evident in his emergence as President of the West Indian Student`s Union, in London in 1947; his ascendancy as co-founder and first Chairman of the People`s Progressive Party, in 1949; and Founder of the People's National Congress.

The realization of his potential culminated in national leadership and inter-

national recognition as the First Prime Minister of independent Guyana, and the First Executive President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

On the 20th February 2021, the Party launched the preparation for the commemoration of Burnham`s centennial birth anniversary. It has been decided that the activities will spawn the period of the entire centennial year, February 2023 to February 2024.

The commencement witnessed a hive of activities. First, there was a commemorative Church Service on the 19th February 2023 at the Trinity Methodist Church on High Street. In the afternoon of the said day the annual commemorative Cycle Race - Carifesta Avenue return - was staged under the auspices of the Burnham Foundation and the Flying Star cycle club. The ceremonial

inaugural activity was hosted by the National Congress of Women (NCW) on Monday 20th February 2023, the actual day of the anniversary and took the form a photographic and publications exhibition featuring the life and works of the Founder Leader of the Party, our Chaperon to Independence and Republicanism.

The Forbes Burnham Centennial Committee, chaired by the Forbes Burnham Foundation (FBF) and manned by representatives drawn from the Party and its arms (GYSM and NCW) along with sub-committees comprised of volunteers will be responsible for the year of activities which will include sporting events, symposia, exhibitions, debating competition, cultural activities, a gala ban-

quet, regional commemorative activities and memorial activities in August. The media and the public will be apprised of the specificities of the activities, in a timely manner. We look forward to recognition of the Founder and his legacy, which has been bequeathed to the nation, and mass involvement in honour of his centennial birth anniversary.

The centennial birth anniversary of Forbes Burnham comes at a time when, more than ever, the country needs to embrace the virtues that made him a great man and leader: his transformative vision, his boldness to blaze new paths, his deep pride in the Guyanese nation, and his unending concern about the welfare of all Guyanese.

A section of the congregation at the Trinity Methodist Church on Sunday 19th February to commemorate the 100th Birth Anniversary of Forbes Burnham. From left are Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP; Party General Secretary, Mrs. Dawn Hastings-Williams, MP; Chairman of FBF, Mr. Vincent Alexander; Dr. Richard Van WestCharles; Mr. Hamilton Green, OR and Dr. David Pollard. Far right are Ms. Cheryl Sampson and Mrs. Volda Lawrence, MP of the NCW.

Briton John (inset, received his prize from Ms. Julianne Gaul of the Forbes Burnham Foundation) who placed first and took home the Forbes Burnham Memorial Cycling Road Race title after riding from Carifesta Avenue to Belfield and back on Sunday 19th February 2023.

A section of the gathering at the NCW Inaugural Ceremony and Photographic and Book exhibition for the celebration of the 100th Birth anniversary of Forbes Burnham at their headquarters on Public Rd., Kitty on Monday 20th February 2023.

Students of the Morgan Learning Center view the exhibits of the Founder leader at the NCW Inaugural Ceremony for the celebration of the 100th Birth anniversary of Forbes Burnham at their headquarters on Public Rd., Kitty on Monday 20th February 2023.

BURNHAM - Politician, Visionary, Statesman

Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham's life exemplifies the so often repeated statement - "walked with kings but did not lose the common touch'.

Born in Kitty on February 20, 1923, son of a headmaster, he received his early education at Kitty Methodist School. He entered Queen's College in 1935 and one year later gained the Centenary Exhibition as well as a Government Junior Scholarship. In 1937, he won the Percival Exhibition Award and in 1942, he emerged as a Guyana Scholar.

Brilliant

In 1944, he was awarded the Bachelor of Arts Degree at the External Examination of the University of London. In 1947 he gained with honours, the Bachelor of Laws Degree from the same University. In 1948, at the age of 25, he was admitted to the bar of the honourable Society of Gray's Inn, London. In 1949 he returned home and was admitted to the local Bar. By 1959 he had so established himself as a brilliant lawyer, that he was elected President of the Guyana Bar Association.

Politics

While a student in London, his keen interest in politics earned him the presidency of the West Indian Students' Union in 1947 and participation as a delegate to the Students' Congresses in Prague in 1947 and Parris in 1948. Upon his return to Guyana he became a co-founder and Chairman of the People's Progressive Party. In 1952, he was elected to the Georgetown City Council where he served as Mayor on two occasions, in 1959 and 1964.

Committed

He was deeply committed to serving the working class. He served as first President of the oldest Trade Union in the Caribbean, the Guyana Labour Union. In October 1982 he was unanimously elected as President General, a position which he held until his demise.

First Executive President

In 1957, he founded our Party and served as Leader of the Opposition within the Legislature until 1964 when he became Premier at the head of the People's National Congress / United Force Coalition Government. When Guyana became independent in 1966, he became our Prime Minister and with the advent of a new Constitution, he was elected the First Executive President on December 15, 1980, guiding the affairs of our nation until his death on August 6, 1985.

International Respect

This outstanding son of Guyana earned for our country international recognition and the respect of friends and foes alike for his articulation of commitment to the practice of Non-Alignment. He made it clear that he was not prepared to sacrifice

Guyana's right to determine its own path of political, economic and social and cultural development. He stood firmly for the dignity and independence of his country. He was also an indefatigable foe of apartheid and was repeatedly praised for the strong support to the liberation struggles in Southern

Carifta/Caricom/Carifesta

Within the Region, he was a Founding Father of both Carifta and Caricom and was regarded as "a Regional Leader of utmost importance and highest esteem." His was the vision of a truly integrated Caribbean Community of independent people and he worked hard towards making that vision a reality.

In the quest for cultural independence, under his leadership, Guyana hosted the first Caribbean Festival of Creative Arts (Carifesta).

As a committed integrationist, he always expressed our willingness to place the vast resources of our country at the disposal of the rest of the Caribbean.

Women’s Rights

At home, he was the healer of the nation after the disastrous sixties, the architect of a revolution for self-reliance and the defender of the disadvantaged. He was a champion of women's rights and ensured the passing of legislation which gave children born out of wedlock equal rights with those born of wedlock. A State Paper on Women in 1976 gave birth to three laws - The Equal Rights Act; The Family and Dependents Provision Act and the Married Persons (Property) Amendment Act. These Acts ensured for women equal rights in all spheres of political, economic and social life.

Concern for Youth

His concern for youth was manifested in the establishment of the Guyana National Service which was meant to give early school-leavers additional opportunities and to build in young people a spirit of nationalism and engender a zeal for service to the nation.

Awards

He received Guyana's Highest award, the Order of Excellence (O.E.) in 1973. His work as an internationalist earned him the grand Cordan Dh'orde du Mil award from the Government of Egypt, the Jose Marti award from the Government of Cuba in 1975 and an honorary Doctorate of Law from Dalhouse University of Canada. Three countries awarded him their highest awards - in October 1983, Brazil honoured him with the Cruseiro DoSol, in 1984, Bulgaria with the Star of Planinay and in 1985, Yugoslavia with the "Order of the Red Star".

Such was the person who had seen our Party from infancy to a mature, effective institution. Such was the person who had guided our nation through independence to full pledged nationhood. In him all have been consumed. He is our Hero. (From New Nation LFSB Supplement, August 2005)

Truth of Burnham's visionary leadership must be told

By Hon. Annette Ferguson, MP

The People's National Congress Reform on Monday 20th February 2023 observed the Centennial birth anniversary of its Founder and Leader, Guyana's First Prime Minister and First Executive President, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, O.E., SC. The celebrations are being done in collaboration with the Forbes Burnham Foundation and will run until the 20th February 2024.

There have been many accomplishments by the late LFS Burnham, but many have and are still attempting to discredit and downplay the contributions of this great visionary Leader who was ahead of his time. From my readings and analysis of the work and contri-

butions of the Late Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham O.E., SC, I have concluded that he was a patriot with an enormous vision for Guyana and its six races. I have heard of the many challenges he faced with his political opponents, but this did not deter him from his major objectives such as - taking Guyana into Independence on May 26, 1966, seeing our nation become a Republic, on February 23, 1970 and moulding Guyana's destiny. I listened to his speeches, interviews and how he dealt professionally and candidly with journalists, locally and internationally. I have also read a few of his articles and have concluded that, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham was indeed a gift from God who was birthed here in Guyana for a purpose.

The late Linden Forbes Sampson

Burnham did not just lead Guyana to Independence or Republican Status, but he created institutions such as the Bank of Guyana, CARIFESTA, Co-Operatives, Agri- Bank, Mortgage Finance Bank, National Insurance Scheme, for which he was highly condemned and criticized. This institution was referred to as "SIN," by Burnham's political opponent, the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan. Monies from this same Scheme were later used by the PPP Government to construct the Berbice Bridge and other projects outside of its mandate. Also, credit should be given to Mr. Burnham for the establishment of regional structures, which now see the decentralization of Government programmes. Burnham also established the Local Government System, which allows for NDCs and Municipalities to be governed by residents and officials from

their local areas. Education was a top priority for LFS Burnham. During his time, he constructed Multilateral Schools and President's College which is downplayed today by those sitting in the seat of Government. Yes, it was Burnham who allowed "education to be free from Nursery to Tertiary," and ensured it was enshrined in our Constitution. This free education was abolished by the PPP in 1994. Other established learning institutions are, University of Guyana, the Government Technical Institute, CPCE, to name a few. May I further hasten to say that many in the current PPP/C party, whether Leadership or otherwise benefitted from "Free Education" under the PNC administrations.

(Continued on Page 8)

BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF FORBES BURNHAM

Some of Forbes Burnham’s achievements

Guyana's 50,000 Amerindians made history in 1976. Over 200 of their Captains, Leaders and other Delegates assembled in Georgetown for the Fourth Amerindian Conference since 1969

Opening the five-day parley at Parliament Building, Prime Minister Burnham said that the nation's Amerindians have a splendid opportunity to make Co-operative Socialism work, and to teach a lesson in Co-operative Socialism not only to other Guyanese, but also to the people of the Western Hemisphere and the World. Other Ministers who had been actively associated with Amerindian affairs included Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Ptolemy Reid, Economic Develop-ment Minister Desmond Hoyte, Comrade Hubert Jack, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and Regional Minister Phillip Duncan - an Amerindian.

During the five-day Conference, the Amerindian representatives unanimously passed resolutions reaffirming their loyalty to Guyana, the People's National Congress and Government and pledging to defend the Republic's 83,000 square mile territory with all their strength and ability.

On Monday April 5, Parliament unanimously passed the Bill under which Amerindians received Certificates of Titles to lands they had been occupying for centuries. All together 61 Certificates were handed over to Amerindians on Tuesday, April 6, 1976. (Guyana Today, 1976)

* The Founder Leader took us into independence

* The Founder Leader gave us Republican status

* Gave us self confidence as a people

* Taught us the virtue and merits of self reliance

* Won us respect in the international community

* Gave land titles to the Amerindians

* Provided for the old and the sick by establishing the National Insurance Scheme

* Built the National Cultural Centre

* Built a complex of schools and other institutions of learning

* Built-up the sporting infrastructure and supported sports generally

* Encouraged the nation to eat foods produced in Guyana

Here Prime Minister Burnham addresses 169 chieftains in the Parliament Chamber at the first such Conference of Amerindian leaders in Guyana’s history in 1969.

Dr Ptolemy Reid handing over the First Certificate of Title to Captain Mary Williams of Mainstay - Waiaka. (April 6th, 1976)

CENTENNIAL BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF FORBES BURNHAM

NCW Region #10 salutes Forbes Burnham on his 100th Birth Anniversary

The National Congress of Women (NCW) of Region #10 in collaboration with the PNCR of Region #10 held a Symposium in celebration of the 100th Birth Anniversary of Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, OE, SC on Monday 29th February 2023 at the PNCR Office at Coop Crescent, Linden. The title of the Symposium

Truth of Burnham's visionary leadership must be told

(Continued from Page 6)

was "Burnham at 100 - The Quest for Self-Determination as a Republic."

The Presenters were Cde. Hamilton Green, OR; RDC Chairman of Region #10, Cde. Deron Adams; Cde. Leslie Gonsalves, Secretary of PNCR Region #10; Cde. Sharma Solomon and Cde. Amabel Clement, representative of the North American Region (NAR).

Housing was another key and critical priority for Burnham and his administration. If we are to conduct a survey, we will find evidence of the many housing schemes still standing since the 1970s, including concrete roads. Burnham felt that in order for Guyana to advance to "a developed nation," infrastructure is pivotal. Hence, the construction of the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, Demerara Harbour Bridge, Canje Bridge, to name a few. He was also instrumental in advancing discussions on hydropower for Guyana, which would have benefitted our brothers and sisters in the hinterland regions significantly. The roads and water system, inherited after coming to office in 1964, were not without its challenges, but with determination and commitment roads were constructed and potable water was provided to many communities.

Though I had not the privilege of meeting this great son of Guyana's soil, I have been mesmerized by the fascinating stories told to me of the benefits and accomplishments of persons who completed the eighteen months training programme in the Guyana National Service. This was an opportunity given to young people to acquire skills for their personal development. Many have since made invaluable contributions to society. This was another ini-

tiative for which Burnham was demonized in Guyana, but which was copied by other Caribbean member states. Today, there is no safety net providing similar opportunities for young people, many of whom now fall prey to antisocial behaviour and crime.

Additionally, I was told of the many local factories established by LFS Burnham. His passion for agriculture was evidenced through his government's policy on Feed, Clothe and House the nation by 1976. Guyana had its own agro processing plant, we canned local fruits and juices, there was the glass factory, clay brick factory and many more.

I appeal to all right thinking Guyanese who served then or had the opportunity to interface, engage, interact, or benefitted from this great Leader's contributions to Guyana, to share our history with their children and family. The truth of Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham's national leadership, as he sought to work with our six races to mould Guyana's destiny as One People, One Nation with One Destiny, must be told, Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, O.E., SC was a patriotic visionary who has left an indelible mark on the development landscape of this beautiful country of ours. Long

Jai Narine Singh (who was the First General Secretary of the PNC), Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham attending a court hearing in Bow Street, London, March 24th 1960. Forbes Burnham, Leader of the People's National Congress in British Guiana, appeared at Bow Street Magistrates Court in London on remand, after taking part in a protest in front of South Africa House the week before.

A section of the gathering at the NCW Region #10 Symposium on Monday 20th Febuary 2023 at Linden.

Some of the Presenters at the NCW Region #10 Symposium are from left, Mr. Deron Adams, RDC Chairman of Region #10; Mr. Hamilton Green, OR and Mr. Sharma Solomon.

Members of the NCW Region #10 with Ms. Amabel Clement of NAR (left) and Ms. Vanessa Kissoon, Chairperson of NCW Region #10 (second from left).

On Tuesday 28th February), the non-resident Ambassador of Sweden, H.E. Anders Bengtcen and French Ambassador to Guyana and Suriname, H.E. Nicolas de Lacoste, both paid courtesy calls respectively on the Leader of the PNCR and Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, at the PNCR Headquarters, Congress Place, Sophia.

The Sweden Ambassador is in Guyana for the presentation of his credentials.

The French Ambassador was accompanied by the Resident Representative of the French Embassy in Guyana, Mr. Pierre Gaté.

With the Opposition Leader to meet with the Ambassadors were the Party's General Secretary, Ms. Dawn Hastings-Williams, MP; Party Vice Chairman, Mr. Vinceroy Jordan, MP; and Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Amanza Walton-Desir, MP.

Lest we forget: The Great 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion

February 27th, is the most unrecognized historic date in our country, but marks the anniversary of one of our most momentous events. It marks the start of the Great 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion. Right now, most of you would be saying “Wait, isn’t February 23rd the anniversary date?” While the popular view has always been that this history-making event began on February 23rd on Plantation Magdalenenburg on the Canje river, more careful history research now tells us that both the date and the location are wrong. The 1763 Rebellion started on February 27th on the main Berbice river itself.

Therefore, the revolt on February 23rd at Magdalenenburg was not part of Coffy’s master plan. It was a separate event that was confined to one estate. Most of the revolters escaped to Suriname.

The Coffy-led revolution started four days later on the Berbice river on Plantation Hollandia. The revolutionaries seized control of all the plantations in the upper Berbice above Fort Nassau. That Coffy could have masterminded in secrecy so massive an operation across so many estates testifies to his brilliance as a planner and leader.

What made the Berbice Revolution great? ONE. it lasted over a year—far

longer than was then typical for slave uprisings.

TWO. Coffy established a nation state. A government was formed, with Coffy as governor and appointed deputies such as Atta, Acabre, Acara and Fortyn (appointed Governor of Canje). An army of 600 fighters was trained. Agriculture was organized. Workshops were set up to repair and make arms. Communication among the estates was set up.

THREE. Coffy sought to export revolution from the Berbice basin to the Canje basin and, critically, to the colony of Demerara.

FOUR. There was written correspondence between the liberated Africans and the Dutch governor, an almost unique occurrence in the history of slave risings. Coffy sent his first letter to Governor Hoogenheim to explain the cause and objective of the rebellion and to warn the Dutch of further attacks if they did not leave for Holland as speedily as possible.

Whether February 23 or 27, let us not forget that our Republic Day was inspired by a Great War of Liberation in 1763 in Berbice. This event is rightly seen as the first of the great revolutions of enslaved Africans—an event of such proportions that it threatened to upturn the colonial order of the time.

(Art: Barrington Braithwaite)

PNCR General Secretary, Ms. Dawn Hastings-Williams, MP, welcoming the Swedish Ambassador, H.E. Anders Bengtcen to Congress Place.

Here from left are Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amanza Walton-Desir; Ambassador H.E. Anders Bengtcen; Party Leader, Aubrey C. Norton, MP; Party General Secretary, Dawn Hastings-Williams, MP and Party Vice Chairman, Vinceroy Jordan, MP.

Party Leader, Aubrey C. Norton, MP, welcoming the French Ambassador, H.E. Nicolas de Lacoste, to Congress Place.

Here from left are Mr. Pierre Gaté; Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amanza Walton-Desir; Ambassador H.E. Nicolas de Lacoste; Party Leader, Aubrey C. Norton, MP; Party General Secretary, Dawn Hastings-Williams, MP and Party Vice Chairman, Vinceroy Jordan, MP.

Medicine shortages!

21 February 2023 - World Economic Forum

There are medicine shortages across the world –especially generics including antibiotics. Why is this happening now and how can we ensure supply?

When seasonal bugs have you running to the clinic or pharmacy for medicines to bring down your temperature or soothe your child's cough, it can be frightening to hear that they can't help you because they are out of stock. Europe, for instance, is experiencing shortages of common medicines. In a survey of medicine shortages carried out between 14 November and 31 December 2022 by the Pharmaceutical Group of the European Union (EU), 100% of the 29 member countries reported experiencing shortages of medicines among community pharmacists and 76% said that shortages were worse than the previous year, 2021. About 79% of respondents reported shortages of anti-infectives for systemic use; while 76% found it difficult to get hold of drugs for respiratory problems; and a range of other conditions, including cardiovascular and gastrointestinal were also highlighted.

But medicine shortages are not unique to the EU region. The UK is experiencing an HRT shortage. US hospitals are reporting supply problems with liquid ibuprofen; while a sudden increase in ADHD diagnoses in the US has led to an unexpected shortage in the drugs used to treat it there. In Mexico, chronic medicine shortages are so dire that many prescriptions couldn't be fulfilled in 2022, while across Asia, sudden supply drops were linked to disruptions in China and in Australia, the TGA has confirmed various shortages have been seen, and rural areas may be worst affected.

There are several reasons for the medicine shortages. COVID-19 lockdowns limited the normal circulation of seasonal bugs. This weakened our immune systems and led to higher-than-normal outbreaks of seasonal illnesses, which has increased the annual average demand for medicines that should alleviate them. Pharmaceutical companies could not quickly meet these unexpected demands, as excess capacity is limited to control costs.

Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine continues to impact supply chains and the knock-on effect of high inflation and energy prices have hit generic drug manufacturers, who are sometimes subjected to pricing regulations, particularly hard.

Furthermore, to protect their limited medicine supplies, some countries have temporarily blocked the parallel trade of medicines to other countries. And, once an over-the-counter drug shortage is announced on the news, consumers begin stockpiling.

There is also the problem of over-prescribing. It is estimated, for example, that the UK's National Health Service loses as much as £300 million a year due to unused or partially used medication that cannot be recycled or re-used.

Some medicine shortages are down to misallocation, with some areas of a country being over-supplied with a particular medicine and other areas experiencing shortfalls. The effective use of data and analytics is key to helping to improve access to medicines globally and better-managing supply and demand to pharmacies and individual patients. The National Academies, for example, recently raised the concept of a public database on medical supplies.

As documented in a 2020 USP report, 'Increasing transparency in the medicines supply chain', real-time data from pharmacies and hospital systems would provide a better understanding of the demand for medical products. It states: "These considerations could include strategies for leveraging electronic health records to enable hospital systems or clinics to report information about medical product demand, without disclosing protected patient information." Improved access to critical data could also unlock opportunities with artificial intelligence (AI) / machine learning (ML) to transform supply chain efficiency.

CARPHA urges member states to continue

surveillance for dengue, chikungunya and zika

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. 24 January, 2023. The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is reminding the public that arboviral diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and Zika are still circulating in the Caribbean region. In light of this, CARPHA emphasizes the importance of prevention and control measures to reduce the transmission of these viruses.

Executive Director, Dr. Joy St. John gave the assurance that CARPHA remains committed to strengthening public health systems for early detection and response to the emergence, reemergence, and spread of arboviral infections. She said, “The CARPHA Medical Microbiology Laboratory (CMML) has the capacity and remains ready to test and provide diagnostic confirmation of suspected cases in the Region” However, she stated, “Member States must maintain a strategic approach to surveillance and sample collection and submission to increase our chances of early identification of infections”. At the same time, Dr. St. John is also encouraging persons to eliminate potential mosquito breeding sites in and around their homes.

Given the increase in regional and international travel to the Caribbean and the presence of the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which

are endemic to this Region and transmit dengue, chikungunya and Zika, CARPHA is urging its Member States to strengthen routine surveillance for undifferentiated fever in their communities.

CARPHA said it is also critical for Ministries of Health to continue public education campaigns to remind people of the importance of keeping their surroundings free of mosquito breeding sites and avoiding mosquito bites. This involves keeping water drums and barrels tightly covered, and throwing out stagnant water from flower vases, old tyres, and other containers.

Dengue, chikungunya and Zika are

Shortening supply chains and trying to produce or procure more active ingredients locally, in addition to relying on go-to countries such as India and China, could also strengthen supply and make it easier to increase production in times of additional need. This has the added benefit of reducing pharmaceutical companies' carbon footprints and limiting their exposure to macroeconomic challenges. While generics manufacturers and partners can work on any aspects of the above unilaterally, new multi-stakeholder models are increasingly being explored. One example is Civica Rx, a purpose-driven US non-profit drug company founded in 2018 with an explicit objective of preventing drug shortages. Civica has relied on its extensive provider consortium covering 1/3 of US hospital beds, and prolific partnership building with medical suppliers, such as AmerisourceBergen, Sandoz and Hikma, as well as the US Federal Government and state governments.

A concept known as Public Benefit Corporations (PBCs) has also emerged. US-based company Phlow, for example, has partnered with other companies, such as Fresenius Kabi, and the public sector, such as HHS/ASPR/BARDA, to secure the supply of essential medicines. And Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs has partnered with providers and Pharmacy Benefits Managers (PBMs). Some have theorised that the PBC model could allow pharma to ensure greater access while still meeting business objectives. On the retail and eCommerce side, non-traditional disruptors, such as the recently launched Amazon RxPass and Walmart prescriptions, are also worth keeping an eye on for potential impacts on the ecosystem. These developments may hint at potentially promising innovative approaches for addressing shortages. Stakeholders across pharma, healthcare providers, governments and others can seek new ways to work together to ensure a more reliable, sustainable medicine supply that ensures resilience and equitable access. These ideas warrant further exploration by leaders across regions.

associated with moderate to severe health consequences, with young children and/or older age groups at higher risk. Symptoms of Zika include rash, fever, muscle and joint pain, and conjunctivitis. Zika has been confirmed as a cause of congenital abnormalities in neonates of women infected with Zika virus during pregnancy and is also a trigger of Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Symptoms of dengue include rash, fever, muscle and joint pain, and nausea, while chikungunya may cause similar symptoms with muscle and joint pain persisting for an extended period.

China should be honest on Covid origin, says US envoy

28 February 2023 - BBC News

The US envoy to China has called on the country to be "more honest" about the origins of the Covid-19 virus.

His comments come a day after US media reported that a federal agency had found the pandemic probably started from a laboratory leak in Wuhan.

The Department of Energy reportedly concluded with "low confidence" that the virus was accidentally leaked.

China's foreign ministry hit back, saying Covid's origin "was about science and should not be politicised" Washington-Beijing ties have been under strain since the US shot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon this month.

Ambassador Nicholas Burns told a US Chamber of Commerce event on Monday that China needs to "be more honest about what happened three years ago in Wuhan with the origin of the Covid-19 crisis".

The energy department had formerly said it was undecided on how the virus began.

Other US agencies have drawn differing conclusions, with varying degrees of confidence in their findings. The FBI in 2021 concluded with "moderate confidence" that the virus leaked from a lab.

Other studies suggest it made the leap from animals to humans at Wuhan's Huanan seafood and wildlife market.

An unclassified report released by the US top spy official in October 2021 said that four US intelligence agencies had assessed with "low confidence" that it had originated with an infected animal or a related virus.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby said on Monday there was still no firm finding either way.

"There has not been a definitive conclusion and consensus in the US government on the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic," he told reporters when asked about the energy department's reported determination.

PPP/C political hijacking of Region #4 will not be toleratedIt is time for Donald Gajraj to go

The Local Democratic Organs Act Chapter 28:09 is the law that governs the Regional Democratic Councils of our beloved nation. It makes it clear that the Regional Democratic Council, which is headed by the elected Regional Chairman, is the supreme authority in the Region. The Regional Executive Officer is Clerk to, and servant of the Council and must implement the decisions of the Council. Unfortunately, the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development and by extension the Government misleads the REO and gives him instructions in total violation of the Rule of Law.

We the elected Council of Region #4 calls on the Minister and Government to cease their political interference in the administration of the Region and create an environment which allows the Regional Democratic Council, its Chairman and Vice-Chairman who have been elected by the people of Region #4 to manage the affairs of Region #4 as mandated by the people of Region #4.

The illegal actions of the imposed PPP/C political Regional Executive Officer, Donald Gajraj, in the Demerara/Mahaica Region (Region #4) are a clear violation of the Laws of Guyana. Despite being a mere servant to the Council, Gajraj has been operating as a puppet of the Minister and the PPP/C. He blatantly ignores the elected representatives of the people and operates as a political enforcer for the Minister and the PPP/C.

It is unacceptable and unlawful for Mr. Gajraj to be able to continue his egregious behavior, especially given that Region #4 is governed by the APNU+AFC which won Region #4 and is the legitimate representative of the people of Region #4. Clearly, the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development and the PPP/C are seeking to grab power through the back door which is a clear indication that the Minister and the PPP/C do not believe in local democracy and the Rule of Law. Gajraj's refusal to carry out the

instructions of the elected council and his recent display of thuggery, lack of civility and disrespect towards the elected Chairman, Mr. Daniel Seeram is the most recent manifestation of their political power grab and disregard for local democracy.

The people of this Region deserve better than a political lackey who is more interested in furthering the agenda of his political masters than in serving the people. It is time for Gajraj to resign or be removed and allow for someone who is committed to upholding the spirit of our constitution, promote local democracy and is disposed to managing the Region in a way that allows it to function in the interest of the people of Region #4. Gajraj must go.

Despite numerous unanimous and majority decisions made by the council, Mr. Gajraj, in his capacity as Clerk of Council and Regional Executive Officer, has failed to implement any of them. His blatant disregard for the Council which represents the people is an affront to democracy and an insult to the very institution he has been appointed to serve. It is unacceptable that someone entrusted with such an important

responsibility can so willfully and unapologetically neglect his duties and undermine the authority of the elected council. The decisions yet to be actioned are:

1.To provide the Works committee, a standing committee of the RDC, with copies of signed contracts, bills of quantity, status report on projects and access to the Regional Engineer to update the committee. This situation is teemed with potential for corruption and the waste of the resources of our Region.

2.To ensure he is present at all RDC meetings and where unable, a competent representative able and capable to provide updates to the council must attend. Such actions inhibit the work of the Region and are disrespectful to the people of the Region.

3.To ensure that Heads of Programmes submit monthly reports to the RDC Council meetings. To date no report from any Heads of Programme was received. This is both a manifestation of incompetence and results in inefficiencies.

4.To stop using his office to facilitate the payment of contractors and ensure the Sub-Treasury functions effectively without interference from him. Another action that teems with potential for corruption.

5.To respect and allow staff members of the Regional Democratic Council to function without fear and political directives. This undermines the confidence of the workers and destroys the morale of the workforce.

6.To ensure the Regional Administrative Committee meetings are facilitated.

Immediate action must be taken to hold Mr. Gajraj accountable for his inaction, infractions and to ensure that the decisions made by the council are implemented without further delay. The people of this region deserve better than a politically partisan public servant who refuses to carry out the mandates of the elected officials.

In addition to the above, on Wednesday 22nd February 2023, Guyana bore witness to an unforgivable and detestable attack on the highest elected regional official during the Region #4 Regional Flag Raising ceremony held on the premises of the Regional Democratic Council. The REO"s physical abuse of the Regional Chairman was a disgraceful act and unbecoming of a senior government official. It was an egregious attack on democracy, and a disgraceful act of disrespect and must be condemned by all and be met with swift and decisive corrective action.

As Regional Chairman, Mr. Daniel Seeram concluded his opening remarks during the ceremony; he expressed his desire for love, unity, and togetherness. In an effort to ensure equal representation, he invited Hon. Catharine Hughes, MP, to give brief remarks. Unfortunately, chaos erupted when REO Gajraj aggressively and arrogantly approached Chairman Seeram and snatched the microphone out of his hand, violating the sanctity of the ceremony. This brazen assault on the Regional Chairman was caught on video, which has since gone viral on social media. A report on this assault was made to the police.

Donald Gajraj is a political crony appointed by the Government, and his reprehensible actions reflect the political behavior of those in power. The Government must now take decisive action to reprimand and remove Gajraj from his position. Keeping him will only serve to reaffirm that the muchtouted 'One Guyana' mantra is nothing more than a meaningless slogan and a farce devoid of any true substance.

The people of Guyana demand and deserve better than this. It is our collective duty to uphold the principles of democracy and ensure that elected officials are treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Failure to do so would be a blatant disregard for the rule of law and the will of the people.

PNCR Republic Day Message 2023

Happy 53rd Republic Anniversary to all our fellow Guyanese at home and abroad.

On this day, 53 years ago, our Dear Land became the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. What did (and does) it mean for Guyana to attain this status?

The PNC Founder Leader, Forbes Burnham, said it best on the occasion of the 9th Republic Anniversary: “For us the coming into being of the Cooperative Republic was the logical culmination of the struggle of independence initiated over 200 years ago by our national hero Coffy in Magdalenenburg, Berbice. But as I have always emphasized, political independence is not an end in itself. Rather, it represents an opportunity to create a society in which all citizens are assured of social and economic justice.”

Our Constitution fully enshrines that

grand vision. But as we mark our 53rd anniversary this year, we are yet to create a society where all citizens enjoy social and economic justice. Too many Guyanese still face the brunt of rampant poverty, inequality, insecurity, and exclusion. Consequently, many citizens have lost faith in whether we will ever seize the opportunity (to quote from the Preamble of our Constitution) “to develop a viable economy and a harmonious community based on democratic values, social justice, fundamental human rights, and the rule of law.”

On this 53rd Republic Anniversary, we in the PNCR and the Opposition remain confident that Guyanese can still forge such a nation. Our Party and Coalition remain committed to the aspirations of those who fought for freedom and independence over the

centuries with great courage and sacrifice. We remain committed to realizing the aspirations enshrined in our Constitution on the political, social, and economic wellbeing of all Guyanese. We remain committed to ensuring Guyanese from all walks of life can enjoy a high living standard and a high quality of life.

We call on all Guyanese to therefore keep the faith in the Guyana nation. Our country has the human, natural, and social capital to do far better for all its citizens. Obstacles however stand in our path. We are confident Guyanese will make the right choices to overcome those obstacles and move this country forward. Together, we can make Guyana one of the best countries to live in.

Again, Happy 53rd Republic Anniversary to all Guyanese.

Mr. Daniel Seeram RDC Chairman, Region #4

2023 Capital Budget must be spent with strict financial oversight and follow the procurement law

During a Press Conference hosted by the Office of the Opposition Leader on Thursday 9th February 2023, the Opposition Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, stressed the point that the government has produced a budget without measures to address poverty, the high cost of living, high inflation and the high level of unemployment. He said the focus of the budget is on infrastructural development which is needed, but is done in a way to facilitate widespread corruption.

In the light of the foregoing there is need for;

(a) Strict financial oversight to minimize fraud and waste, and

(b) A public procurement system that ensures equity and rewards a wider range of citizens in our society.

For 2023, the government has allocated G$388B for capital expenditure. Most of this money will be spent on infrastructure projects, such as roads and public buildings. Guyanese should be aware that almost all of the G$388B will be filtered through the public procurement system – in other words, through contracts to be awarded by government ministries, state agencies, and regional democratic councils.

Against this background, there is a need for the government to put in place measures (a) to minimize corruption and financial mismanagement, and (b) to ensure equitable allocation of contracts across groups in the society.

(a) Measures to minimize corruption and financial mismanagement

The Coalition delivered quality infrastructure at a much lower cost than the present PPP regime. The revelation by Member of Parliament David Patterson, during his budget presentation indicated that PPP road contracts are costing taxpayers $40M per km more than under the Coalition government. This highlights the crisis of corruption and financial mismanagement in the public procurement system at present. This should not be left unchecked since the crisis will worsen. The Guyanese people will get fewer and fewer returns relative to the money invested in capital projects. In public spending, citizens must always demand cost minimization, efficiency (or output maximization), and effectiveness (or full attainment of the intended results). This does not occur under the PPP.

The government has thus far failed to inform the nation of any intention to stem the hemorrhaging of public funds through fraud and financial mismanagement. From all indications, it seems more comfortable being a facilitator and co-conspirator in the abuse of the people’s money as the government pursues its policy of enriching its elites, families, friends and favourites.

The people of Guyana must therefore raise their voices in outrage. There must be greater oversight and accountability. The Public Procurement Commission must get off its rump and fulfil its mandate. The Guyana Constitution (Article 212 AA) empowers this Commission to “monitor the performance of procurement bodies with respect to adherence to regulations and efficiency in procuring goods and services and execution of works” and “to investigate cases of irregularity and mismanagement, and

propose remedial action.” As an independent constitutional body, the Commission must not allow the government to thwart the fulfillment of its responsibility to the people. It must urgently get its act together.

In addition, the Office of the Auditor General must conduct value-for-money audits for large projects—not only after construction, but also during construction. There are now too many infrastructure projects which are too expensive, behind schedule, poorly constructed, and in the hands of contractors with little or no experience. A classic case of this is the Bamia/Amelia’s Ward Primary School contract, awarded to persons from the entertainment industry with no experience in construction. Their only claim to fame is their close links to the corrupt PPP regime.

The APNU+AFC during the budget debate 2023 advocated for a PeopleCentered Development Strategy in which the resources of our country should benefit the people. Unfortunately, this is not the case with this government since no action is being taken to ensure the entire G$388B capital budget for 2023 benefits the people of Guyana.

(b) Measures to ensure equitable allocation of contracts

The stark imbalance in the award of government contracts must now be addressed to ensure a wider cross-section of Guyanese individuals and businesses can benefit as contractors. There is no denying the obvious fact that only a narrow section of the population benefits overwhelmingly from contract awards. This unacceptable situation has been allowed to continue unrestricted for too long and has become self-perpetuating. These acts of political and ethnic discrimination in the awarding of contracts are unacceptable.

Let it be recalled that the award of government contracts was an issue dealt with in the Constitutional Reform process that emanated from the “Herdmanston Accord” – meaning that in the aftermath of the 1997 election and public protest, the award of contracts (with the attendant discrimination and exclusion) was explicitly identified by all stakeholders as a matter of central

Celene Alana Smith: Born 16th January 1971; Died 7th February 2023.

The PNCR expresses sincere condolences to Party Executive member, Ms. Carol Smith-Joseph and her family on the passing of her dear sister, Celene Alana Smith, who died on Tuesday 7th February 2023, after a brief illness. She was 52 years old, born 16th January 1971. Ms. Celene was a card bearing member of Meadow Brook Gardens PNCR Group and the aunt of Shonelle Smith-Daniels.

Ms. Smith was laid to rest on Tuesday 21st February at Hopetwon, West Coast Berbice.

May her soul be at Eternal Peace.

Bertrand Ron McArthur: Born 10th July 1959; Died 20th February 2023.

The PNCR wishes to extend heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives and friends of the Late Bertrand Ron McArthur, who passed away on Monday 20th February.

The funeral service for the late Orrin Mitchell was held on Monday 27th February 2023 at the Memorial Gardens Cremetorium. May his soul be at Eternal Peace!

importance for race relations, social justice, and equal opportunity in Guyana. The 1999 Constitution ReformCommission (CRC) agreed, therefore, to establish the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) as a body with constitutional powers to address this national problem.

While in government the APNU+AFC established the Commission and allowed it to carry out its constitutional mandate. Unfortunately, over the decades, through various machinations by the PPP, the Commission has been prevented from delivering on its man-

date. This is the case at present. The Public Procurement Commission must work towards building a contract award system that, while remaining fair and competitive, can at the same time include special measures to correct previous discrimination and injustices by opening the door for wider participation from under-represented groups. In this way, the distribution of the country’s economic wealth can promote social and economic justice and inclusion across ethnic, religious, gender, political, and social lines

The casket of the late Celene Alana Smith during the funeral service at Meadow Brook Nazarene Church on Tuesday 21st February 2023.

Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP Leader of the Opposition