IT IS a  given that  since a  government has received its mandate from the people , then it has a duty to consult and include  them  in the  decision-making process, particularly when it is about critical issues that are central to that  particular state’s socio-economic advancement.

This initiative, a process by which a government consults with key representatives from particularly the business and commerce sector, but also includes leaders from the religious and cultural sections, and other civic bodies, is known as the stakeholders’ process. Call it the very essence of democracy, since these fora allow for a genuine consultation and an exchange of views between these critical components of society and the Executive.
This has been a frequent method employed by PPP/C Government since their ascension to office, and has been a consistent process  as it continues to  determine  the way forward for Guyana. But, unfortunately, there are some political leaders who  conclude otherwise – like a certain A Party For National Unity (APNU) senior spokesperson who branded the just concluded government  discussion on the very important Amaila Falls Hydro Project with national stakeholders a ‘charade’. Is this not narrow and parochial thinking, mischievous and irresponsible? Does one not detect a hint of jealousy from this parliamentarian, especially given the fact that such a people’s approach was never practised by the former PNC regime? He must be reminded that such is the right of any democratically elected government to seek guidance from its citizens .
There was never any doubt that the most important economic project in the history of this nation would have received full support from those gathered. Even well known social commentator, Christopher Ram, supported the neccessity of such a project, despite voicing some issues which, he was assured, will be examined.
But now, that most important segment of the nation that matters, the people, must become integrally involved against this reckless and dangerous act recently committed against their well-being – voting against two important legislative pieces pivotal to funding consideration by the Inter-American  Development Bank.
Certainly it does not take a genius to understand what the benefits of cheap energy are. This is well understood by most Guyanese, who has been paying very high Guyana Power and Light energy bills over the years.  For them, this project will mean the acquisition of further benefits that can only cement their future security.
Therefore, those  who are supporters/constituents of both parliamentary opposition parties,   it is time that they demand of their Members of Parliaments an account of their stewardship of the nation’s vital business, particularly the wasteful and anti-national act of  vetoing projects that are vital and necessary for their individual development, and that of the nation in the longer term.
They must demand an immediate end to this useless and dangerous opposition strategy.