BLUE CAPS started a few months ago with a simple mission: 1.) Train young leaders 2.) Develop and advocate public policy solutions, and 3.) Engage in community service.

We also have been visible advocates calling for local government elections (LGE) and sharing a 10-point statement of values about what we expect from all political parties and leaders.
Clearly we have tapped into a long simmering national passion and conviction ready to burst with rightful force. The attention Blue CAPS has received is as startling as it is amusing, particularly from political policy makers and the media.

We have been labelled variously as pro-USA, pro-LEAD, pro-PPP, pro-PNC and pro-AFC. However, most of the unwarranted criticisms have come from the ruling party because of our call for local government elections. The criticisms have attempted to overwhelm the dialogue from focusing on the real heart and soul of the Blue CAPS message.
The call for LGE is not a political criticism of any one political party, but rather arising from a deep, unconditional love of country that supersedes political partisanship, our message underscores our fundamental individual and collective constitutional and civic obligation. That is, what all of us must ensure should be administered without fail every three years. Regrettably, we have not fulfilled this most essential obligation for 20 years.
Blue CAPS is not focused on political blame or partisan favour. It operates on the most sincere premise: doing what is right for Guyana by honouring our individual and collective constitutional obligations.

We respect the roles of our political parties and leaders. Similarly, the people in civil society have equally important roles. The request is simple: we demand mutual respect for our roles as national citizens.

As for my ambitions, I am passionate about public service and full disclosure is merited. Civic passion has motivated me to serve the Georgetown Chamber and other private sector organisations for close to a decade. It also has motivated me to start Blue CAPS for capitalising upon the unique energy of young citizens.

If and when that passion leads me to enter into formal politics through a political party, I will embrace the call openly and honestly, with the desire to serve the community for good. However, currently that is not my motivation and Blue CAPS certainly is not the appropriate vehicle for it.
Blue CAPS is and always will be an NGO. If any member wishes to pursue an official political career either through an existing party or by forming his or her own, we would wholeheartedly support that individual’s choice.

There is nothing egregious about us accepting funding from any reputable entity whose priorities align with ours. We always will reach out to all important stakeholders in our society, engaging them with deep respect while we advance our public policy positions and objectives for the best interests of Guyana.

CLINTON URLING