The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) yesterday denounced the PPP administration’s revocation of the work permit for Glenn Bradbury, the Head of the US’s controversial Leadership and Democracy (LEAD) Project.
“It is a backward decision and reveals the ugly underbelly of the administration insecurity. Those harbouring doubt or feel the PPP is interested in democracy need no more evidence of its anti-democratic stance. Pre-1992 campaign slogan “restoring democracy” is once again validated as empty rhetoric, fooling the nation and international community to support its bid for the reign of government. The PPP continues to undermine the pillars of democracy given its litany of excuses to not hold constitutional mandated local government elections, refusal to establish constitutional commissions, and trampling the rights of
citizens”, the GTUC railed in a statement yesterday.
The government triggered surprise when it announced last week that the permit had been withdrawn because Bradbury’s activities offended the laws of Guyana. The US has since criticized the action which came amid a months-long controversy over the project.
The TUC charged that the PPP perceives governmental power as an entitlement not a privilege.
“A party and government committed to governing in the people’s interest need not fear a project that sets out to empower the people about the values of democracy and their role in their process. They need not fear an engaged citizenry. Were the government proud of its human rights’ record there would be no need to undermine a project designed to empower and safeguard the people’s fundamental right to participate, share and received ideas, information and knowledge on matters affecting their well-being. This is an administration running scared and afraid of intensified scrutiny of its dastardly stewardship of the nation’s affairs”, the GTUC charged.
The union movement said that it continues to support the project because it is a vital cog in strengthening and deepening the nation’s democratic processes and institutions.
“GTUC views the revocation of Mr. Bradbury’s work permit as government desperation. It is another attempt to close the floodgates for justice. The administration continues to ignore that though the arc of the moral universe is long, it bends towards justice. Independent media, an emerging vocal civil society, the internet, proliferation of social media, including the cell phone in the hands of many, would advise the government it cannot stop the sharing and receiving of ideas, information and knowledge. It cannot stop being held accountable, nor can it stop the people’s march for good governance”, the statement said.
