FOR quite some time, the voices of those traditional, perennial critics and prophets of doom have been silent; and this is with specific reference to the category of those who allege that the government is not doing enough for the Amerindians of Guyana.

Absolutely, their voices have died, because of worn-out criticisms that are without bases or foundation. They have been proven wrong, for since 1993, the PPP/C government has been fulfilling its every promise of correcting the historical wrongs committed against these well-deserving people.
Thus, the currently held seventh national deliberations  of the National Toshaos Council exemplifies the significant distance of the long journey that our Amerindian peoples have travelled, to this important milestone, where annually they meet with  Government leaders, and other senior state functionaries, to discuss matters that are pertinent to their respective communities’ socio-economic well being. This in itself is remarkable advancement  for the application of governance for their individual locale.
And this point must be emphasised, given the hollow and ridiculous view by some sections of the political Opposition, that the Amerindians “are used as pawns”. Again, another nebulous claim, that in itself is very disrespectful to Amerindians, inferring that they cannot think for themselves. But the fact that this particular type of annual interaction has been occurring, speaks of a  new era in which they are  accepted, undisputedly, as  part of the Guyanese family of nations, with the inalienable right  exercised by every other Guyanese, to make their views known on their own affairs, and even pronounce on general national ones, as well.
Further, it is testimony to the great confidence that they, as a people, have inculcated within recent decades, that they can discuss the welfare of their communities in a free and frank manner with the Executive, knowing  that their concerns are noted and that corrective action will be taken where necessary.
Let it be stated that there are those anti-nationals who have been wishing for discord between this particular Guyanese group and the government, for reasons which can only be interpreted as satisfying their sinister minds. But this is not going to take place, for the Amerindians do have a lot for which they are thankful since the PPP/C administration returned to office. Just behold the gradual transformation taking place throughout the many Amerindian communities! Look at the many specialised interventions,  enacted specifically for elevating their individual well-being, and their communities in the process. For example, so many have been benefiting from the Hinterland Scholarship Programme, with its numerous  products now found in virtually every  section of the  professional classes, throughout the Public Service, making their contributions to the national good.
Never will the Amerindians be unthankful for the much improved lives that they now lead, and the positive changes taking place within their communities. They can only want to continue with more progress and opportunities  provided  by the PPP/C Government.