The opposition is becoming background noise

Dear Editor,

Guyana’s political opposition risks becoming mere background noise. Constant criticism of the PPP may fuel social media, but reaction is not strategy and repeated accusations are not the sustained work needed to earn public confidence or prove readiness to govern.

One reason the APNU/AFC failed is that it was elected without a plan—I recall the former Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport openly admitting at the first Volunteer Support Platform meeting^[1] that she did not know why she held the post and never wanted it.

When the message is mostly bad-talking the PPP and hoping frustration will convert to votes, the opposition becomes predictable and easy to ignore.

Criticism is essential, but it must be paired with credible alternatives, disciplined organising and a clear account of what it would do differently. The opposition is part of the system of national governance, not an outsider shouting from the sidelines.

Supporters should ask whether the opposition has learned anything and is prepared to govern, or whether the allegations are personal grievances on the national stage. Where are the counter-budgets, substantive policy papers, credible public-interest investigations, sustained civic initiatives and shadow plans?

Guyanese need to see serious organising among workers, farmers, young people, Indigenous communities, the private sector and others. Without that foundation, interventions sound like reactions rather than the work of an alternative government.

Little appears to have been learned from the infiltration, internal dysfunction and poor management that contributed to the PNC’s decline—perhaps the same Russians once blamed for the 2020 elections have now stolen the opposition’s credibility. Political noise cannot build confidence or persuade voters that a competent government-in-waiting exists.

The mass exodus from the PNC to the PPP of people raised on PNC propaganda, speaks volumes, as does the sudden silence of many former APNU/AFC ministers and high office holders.

Did their earlier participation or interest simply evaporate once the posts and salaries disappeared? This is a travesty, a disservice and lends to the erosion of public confidence.

Equally puzzling is the persistent tagging of ABCEU countries on social media, as though diplomacy were a schoolyard exercise and foreign missions stood ready to rescue the opposition.

What is the strategy? Does the Leader of the Opposition believe these governments do not already understand Guyana’s politics and strategic importance, or is the tagging mainly performance for domestic supporters?

Meaningful diplomatic relationships are built on seriousness, consistency and sustained engagement, not digital grandstanding. Guyana needs an opposition capable of more than anti-PPP rhetoric. That rhetoric has been heard for years, yet the PPP remains in office and may be stronger than ever.

The opposition’s duty includes developing credible policies, organising in communities, engaging constructively with institutions and leaders, and demonstrating the competence and discipline to govern. If it continues on its present course, its voice will be increasingly hard to hear as anything other than background noise.

References

1. Youth volunteers in Barbados on exchange visit - Stabroek News — www.stabroeknews.com ↩