Georgetown: The Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) has condemned and likewise is urging all Guyanese to condemn acts of violence and other behavior that may disrupt national life.
“We also urge the leaders of the respective political parties to promote among their supporters, calm, patience and respect for individual and collective security during this period of uncertainty,” the APA stated.
The APA has noted with much condemnation, the racists remarks and insults that have been circulating on social media and other places during this elections period. It appears that especially around this time, it surfaces even more strongly, to boil over as mistrust and enmity. It is regrettable that some persons even perpetuate this sad situation.
The APA calls on all Guyanese to refrain from doing so. “We need to question ourselves about how we have allowed our society to sink further into this situation if we repeat it, encourage others to repeat it, or do nothing to erase it.”
The organisation particularly condemns such remarks made against indigenous peoples through the use of numerous derogatory names and by “flaying us for not being grateful.”
Historically, indigenous peoples have been among the most under-represented and under-served peoples with respect to fair participation in national decision-making processes and in receiving basic social services.
Therefore, the APA says any such provisions by the State should be seen as its fulfillment of an obligation to one section of its citizenry in the same way it provides for others under different circumstances.
Additionally, the APA noted that while some things have improved over the years, there is still a long way to go in bridging the gap between the coast and the hinterland.
Guyana’s hinterland population, the APA stated is just like the rest of Guyanese are entitled to proper infrastructure, electricity, health and educational services, among many others. The fact that some of these services have been provided for our people over the years, not only the recent years, must not be seen as favors that need to be repaid to any political party, for past, current or future works. These services are in fact a small fraction of what is needed. Instead, they must be seen as a Government, irrespective of which party holds that position, fulfilling its duties.
Similarly, the APA stated that no political party must feel that votes can be bought by handing out “gifts in kind,” bribes or other incentives, as have been evident during this period.
“We call on our people to insist that our rights are not for sale. We must understand that we have a right to organize and to belong to a political party of our choice but at no time must we compromise our rights. We therefore reiterate the need for transparency and accountability of campaign funding, more focus on voter education and reform of our constitution. Let good sense and peace prevail,” the APA stated.
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