GUYANA | U.S Fact-Finding Mission was a success says Anti-Discrimination Institute

GEORGETOWN, November 25, 2023 - The Institute For Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) has expressed its support for the recent United States (U.S) Fact-Finding mission to Guyana and commended the team’s diligent efforts in addressing issues of discrimination in the country. 

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday the institute said while the visit served as a significant step towards promoting equality and justice, it is essential to acknowledge that there is much more work to be done.

According to IFAAD Vice Chairman and Communication Officer, former Mayor Pandit Ubraj Narine, the 13-member United States Fact-Finding Mission to Guyana was a success. 

Narine, speaking with Village Voice News, said Guyanese, notwithstanding attempt by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government to dampen citizens’ spirit about meeting the team, people turned up in their numbers to tell their stories and presented evidence of discrimination and marginalisation by the government.

The former mayor cited instances such as the vendors issue, the demolition of houses and businesses in Mocha, and mistreatment of local authorities in the Opposition strongholds and opposition politicians.  “All these stories were told to the delegation,” he said.

At the organisation’s press conference, Narine and Lelon Saul, Secretary recounted the outreach of the fact-finding team which was led by Dr. Dee Dawkins-Haigler and Rep John King III. 

The team, which was here from 13th November- 19th November, was able to visit Region Four, Region Five, Region Six and Region 10, meeting with non-government organisations, businesses, political opposition, trade unions and individuals. The Government, whilst initially saying it was looking forward to meeting the team, did an about face on the eve of the team’s arrival.

The team held town hall meetings in Georgetown at the Critchlow Labour College and in Linden at the Town Council Chambers. The Linden’s meeting was disrupted by the unruly behaviour of PPP officials and agent provocateurs. IFAAD, in condemning the incident, also called for an investigation by the Police and U.S Ambassador to Guyana.

Narine, delving further into the team’s visit, questioned the veracity of President Irfaan Ali’s claim that he can unite Guyana. According to the vice chairman, how could this be possible when the president does not want to work with the Opposition, African-led organisation, the municipalities of Georgetown, Linden, New Amsterdam and other groups.

IFAAD Secretary Lelon Saul, who co-hosted the Thursday’s press conference, addressed the growing gap between the haves and have-nots, stating that discrimination along class line is also a factor in Guyana that cannot be ignored.  He pointed out that a small percentage of people are controlling all the wealth even as he made the call to President Ali to balance infrastructural development with human development.

The institute noted discrimination in any form, whether based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or any other distinguishing factors, is fundamentally unjust and undermines the core principles of a fair and equitable society. 

To this end IFAAD said it is crucial for governments to actively participate in efforts to eliminate discriminatory practices and work towards a more inclusive society and has called on the government to reconsider its decision and engage in productive dialogue with the U.S. Fact-Finding Mission soon.

The Fact-Finding team said its intent from the visit is to use insights gained from the meetings to inform and guide discussions with relevant leaders in Congress and the White House upon their return to the U.S. 

By sharing the experiences and concerns raised by Guyanese American citizens, the delegation said it aims to advocate for positive change and promote inclusivity and equality at both national and international levels. The delegation also made known that this was not a formal U.S government mission but an independent unbiased fact-finding mission.

IFAAD’s full press statement follows:-

The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) expresses its support for the recent U.S. fact-finding mission to Guyana and commends their diligent efforts in addressing issues of discrimination within the country. 

While the visit serves as a significant step towards promoting equality and justice, it is essential to acknowledge that there is much more work to be done.

IFAAD acknowledges that Guyana’s overall commitment to combat discrimination and strive for inclusive policies can be measured by the willingness of its government to engage constructively with fact-finding missions such as this. 

Regrettably, we note the disappointing stance of the current PPP government, who chose not to meet with the U.S. Fact-Finding Mission. This decision raises concerns about potential discriminatory practices associated with the PPP government policies.

Discrimination in any form, whether based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or any other distinguishing factors, is fundamentally unjust and undermines the core principles of a fair and equitable society. 

It is crucial for governments to actively participate in efforts to eliminate discriminatory practices and work towards a more inclusive society. IFAAD urges the PPP government to reconsider its decision and engage in productive dialogue with the U.S. Fact-Finding Mission in the near future.

The IFAAD remains committed to its mission of combating all forms of discrimination in Guyana and around the world. We call upon the international community, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to actively collaborate in fostering a culture of acceptance, tolerance, and equality within Guyana. Together, we can promote a society that respects and values the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of their background.

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