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Cerebral fortitude at the level of the REO, but what about sitting ministers
Dear Editor,
I write to laud the President of Guyana for demonstrating cerebral fortitude in his recent decision to replace and reshuffle Regional Executive Officers (REOs). For too long, “square peg in round hole” inefficiency and, alleged, fiscal improprieties have plagued regional administration, despite repeated public complaints. The President’s reported warning that any breaches in financial and procurement procedures – including dealings with multiple companies – will attract severe consequences, up to and including removal from office, is a welcome tonic.
Furthermore, the announcement that incoming REOs, Permanent Secretaries, National Procurement officers, and public officers will operate under strengthened oversight systems to eliminate waste and enforce accountability, efficiency, and transparency is precisely the governance reform this nation requires.
However, a pressing question remains, and it demands an answer:
Will the same standard be applied to sitting Ministers of Government if they are found wanting?
Editor, it is replete in the public domain that several sitting ministers possess personal financial portfolios far exceeding their cumulative government salaries. Such discrepancies – absent credible explanations (not “word of mouth” assurances) of inheritance, business income, or gifts- raise legitimate concerns under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the proceeds of crime legislation.
Will the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), with the assistance of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and/or other competent authorities be mandated to investigate these alleged financial shenanigans without fear or favour? Or will there be one rule for technocrats and another for political appointees?
Finally, genuine oversight cannot rest on executive action alone. Will the Government interface with the Speaker of the House, Honorable Manzoor Nadir -with dispatch-to schedule to schedule Meetings of the National Assembly to fill the longstanding substantive constitutional appointments. Will the government effectuate the board of the Police Complaints Authority, and any vacant parliamentary oversight committee chairs – to strengthen the watchdogs guarding the public purse?
Editor, without these independent checks, even the most robust reshuffle risks being performative.
Accountability should be universal, not selective. The President has taken a brave and resolute first step. His imprimatur is the completion of this administrative journey.
Yours faithfully,
Jonathan Subrian Esq.
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