ILLEGAL occupation of roadsides and other reserves must come to a halt. The Constitution of Guyana clearly states that it is unlawful to occupy roadsides for commercial use. It infringes on the rights  of all citizens who are using the roadways, and it causes total risk and discomfort. It also creates unfair competition to legitimate businesses. They do not have the required licences and also do not pay taxes etc.   The government of the day has the responsibility to uphold the Laws of Guyana. All laws of the state are vested in the police ‘service and protection’ umbrella, and it is quite visible and painful to watch and see the law enforcement agencies are not enforcing the laws of Guyana.

The time has come to eradicate lawlessness; the government has established strategic tarmacs for vending, and it is the way forward in an organised and planned economy.

Notices were issued on numerous occasions to vendors. At one occasion, a vendor beat up an NDC personnel involved in a removal exercise. There were instances when the NDCs, RDCs, public works and police demolished structures and removed them. The next day they returned and resettled at the location. One of them parked a bus, a truck, a stall between and a car plus umbrella which is riding on the public road and road shoulder 24 hours daily which is the busiest area at Vreed-en-Hoop in front of a school, a shopping centre, a bank, a service station internet and a mosque.
The Ministry of Public Works has acquired a tow truck; why not use it to remove the static vehicle? The citizens are confused as to the encumbrances caused and no action. If Guyana is to keep moving, the laws must be enforced.

It is also an eyesore for the tourism industry, and it sends a negative message. Moreso, it is total lawlessness in licensed business registration, as VAT and taxes and NIS payments are all evaded in the process, which affect lawful businesses.
It is time to stop talking and enforce the law.