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The PPP practices political harassment

Aug 04, 2024 Letters

Dear Editor

Political harassment has been a hallmark of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in Guyana for decades, continuing unabated under the current administration.

This policy has created an atmosphere of fear and repression, stifling dissent and discouraging both supporters and critics from speaking out against corruption and policies and actions by the government that are not in the best interest of Guyana and Guyanese.

The targeting of former PPP members such as Ralph Ramkarran, Moses Nagamootoo, and Khemraj Ramjattan exemplifies the party’s intolerance for dissent. After parting ways with the PPP, these individuals have faced sustained attacks and marginalization, demonstrating the party’s punitive approach towards former allies who dare to criticise its actions.

The harassment extends to government critics, public sector officials, and ordinary citizens who expose corruption or speak against the government. Media outlets and some journalists have been targeted for reporting that unearthed corruption or that are critical of government action and policy, while individuals such as the former chairman of the New Building Society and members of the political opposition have been harassed and intimidated for their views. The PPP has historically used corrupt elements within the police force to silence its critics and instill fear. It is a public fact that the government also engages criminal elements, organised phantom killings squads and other criminal elements to target especially influential persons critical of government action. For example, think Freddie Kissoon, although he is very quiet and complacent these days. This tactic ensures that those who dare to speak out against corruption or mismanagement are met with swift and often brutal retaliation. This pattern of behaviour is evident in the targeting of individuals.

PPP supporters themselves are not immune to this climate of fear. Even loyalists are reluctant to voice dissent or express concerns about the government’s actions. The pervasive fear of political retribution discourages public servants, civil society members, and ordinary citizens from speaking out, leading to a culture of silence and complicity.

No amount of political efforts by President Ali to dance with the people, pretend he is grassroots, or give the appearance of a government in touch with the populace can disguise the reality. He is just there to provide a cushion because the public is fed up with Bharrat Jagdeo. The public understands these gestures are distractions meant to create a facade of engagement. If the government were genuinely in touch with the people, we would see tangible improvements in salaries and standards of living sufficient to meet the needs of all Guyanese. There would be less or no corruption within the police force and public sector, and crime would be under control.

The dangers of political harassment in a country like Guyana are profound. It erodes democratic principles, undermines trust in public institutions, and perpetuates a cycle of corruption and abuse. The people of Guyana must recognize the insidious nature of these practices and stand united against a government that prioritizes power and control over justice and transparency. It is imperative for the citizens of Guyana to demand accountability and transparency from the PPP. We must confront the pervasive fear and take a stand for democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights. Only by rejecting the culture of political persecution can we hope to build a more just and equitable society.

Sincerely,

C.A. Singh

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