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Opposition should hold meetings on the importance of a strong anti-money laundering bill

Mar 14, 2014 Letters

Dear Editor,
Leader of the majority opposition Mr. David Granger ought to be congratulated for his strong and justified position on the form and substance of the anti-money laundering bill. He must not budge until Guyana has a strong bill that will allow the competent institutions and agencies the scope, latitude and competencies to nab those culprits, who continue to indulge in money laundering, and corruption which is affecting community and national development. Guyana is on the watch list of many countries, and every law-abiding Guyanese is understandably ashamed of this new negative national status.
As a nation, we can no longer afford to continue with a bill that has been in existence for a long time without any real efficacy. The PPP/C has had the bill in its possession even when it had the majority in the National Assembly but did not work to correct its short comings. Now, they are running around, holding meetings, blaming the opposition for not passing it. Even the ordinary man in the streets does not believe them because he knows the truth. The question is why did the government fail to tidy up the bill when it had the majority in parliament? Something is indeed wrong with their sudden approach to rush such an important bill through parliament, without the vital input from critical stakeholders.
However, they have managed to influence the private sector, in believing that the opposition have been stalling. The Private Sector is calling on the opposition to pass the bill but it has not been calling on the government to ensure that APNU amendments are properly included in the bill, to give it substance and make it effectual. The Private Sector appears to be gullible and knowingly taking a soft position against the PPP/C government.
It took a similar position with the Amelia Hydro Project, which has since been deliberately played down by its promoters.
Sometimes, I wonder if the Private Sector is an arm or extension of the government or an authentic body that is fair and just, that is not only concerned with the bottom line but also the interest of citizens, the consumers who support these corporations and who are responsible for the very existence of these businesses, in communities.
The leader of the majority Opposition, in Parliament, Mr. Granger has been doing a very good job. He must be encouraged to keep up the fight so that all Guyana can win. Regardless of the noise coming from the camp of the PPP/C government, he must not flinch; he must know that all of us are depending upon him.
However, I wish to suggest that, the APNU and AFC hold public meetings in local neighbourhoods and explain to the people, why it is important for them to support a strong anti-money laundering bill. Also, they should use flyers, leaflets, the independent media and other channels to tell the people the facts about the bill.
I am aware that the combined opposition has been reaching out to the public but more can be done and should be done by our representatives in parliament.
It is important that our young people understand and appreciate the value and meaning of a strong antic-money laundering bill in circumstances where our national frontiers are not properly managed because of inadequate resources available to our army, and law enforcement agency.
Now, is a good time for the leaders of the opposition to tell their side of the story and to enlist the support and commitment of all citizens in their struggle to change the image and reputation of Guyana.
Winston Munroe

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