THE frequent unsubstantiated diatribes from a few paid detractors and government haters have become laughable. The local populace and those who keep abreast with Guyana’s current affairs are well informed.

For the latter group, the Internet is pivotal in dispelling the manufactured misinformation which is directed at bringing the government and the country into disrepute. These actions are synonymous with Opposition elements whose engrained traits are to propagate falsehoods to mask progress.

Here, some have willingly accepted this role while operating under the guise as columnists and media operatives. This audaciousness continues unabated in local tabloids and some electronic media outlets owned by known Opposition loyalists.

Their constant attempts to assail the general public with misinformation, sometimes laced with seditiousness, have been dispelled not only by government officials, but by an edified populace. But yet they thrive under the false notion that people are ignorant of the facts.

The general population now has access to information that enlightens them about the government’s programmes and policies and about activities by the Head of State and Cabinet Ministers. This is not confined to regular outreaches, but complements the numerous feedback mechanisms, including public days by ministers.

While the Opposition bombardment will remain, the sons and daughters of this nation, whether they reside here or overseas, can testify to the numerous achievements by this administration to transform and modernise Guyana.

The evidence is overwhelming with Guyana now classified as a developing country, an unimaginable scenario 18 years ago when it was woefully bankrupt with the unenviable brand as the second poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. This rapid transformation towards prosperity was only possible by this administration’s prudence and commitment to enhance the lives of all Guyanese.

This is manifested in the tens of thousands who have vastly and comfortably increased their disposable incomes thereby increasing their assets, including property and vehicles.

It is obvious that the standard of living of Guyanese has improved with a vast reduction in poverty. Space would not permit the many examples of developments, especially within the social sector, that have taken place over the last 18 years. This developmental trend is the hallmark of this administration propelled by an energetic and visionary President. To convince the nation to the contrary would be an exercise in futility.

The biggest irony of those who tirelessly endeavour to hoodwink Guyanese and others into believing that progress is a figment of one’s imagination, is that they all enjoy affluent lifestyles.

Their constant lamentation of a lack of development and progress is contrary to their known financial status. Moreso, their attempts to coerce others to subscribe to their political directive that freedom of expression and other democratic norms are absent are clearly a contradiction of their daily pastime.

They candidly and liberally criticise and disparage the government and its officials and yet claim that freedom of expression is lacking.

They publish inaccuracies recklessly and unabatedly and yet shamelessly propagate that fascism abounds. The incongruity is pellucid and laughable. These detractors include some who claim to be lecturers, lawyers, economists and accountants.

Their unconscionable utterances are characteristic of Opposition parties obsessed with the aspiration to win public office at any cost even if it means to deliberately tailor their role to that of misrepresenting facts for personal gratification.

Their actions of political prostitution have defiled the `independent analysts’ label they use in an effort to conceal their allegiance.

From their rants, they have lost any semblance of credibility they may have possessed. This lack of credibility and their proclivity to blatantly peddle lies on behalf of their political masters have, for years, exposed their hypocrisy.

Being the puppets they have become, it will be surprising if they were to suddenly articulate the truth regarding the visible progress and freedoms that permeate this land.

Thankfully, the truth cannot be masked by the media puppets who are Opposition operatives in disguise. The evidence of development is overwhelming.

Guyanese are enlightened and have the amenities to empower them to easily determine the opportunistic liars; inconceivable 18 years ago.