THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) holds a weekly press conference, hosted by General Secretary Mr. Clement Rohee. It is not peculiar to want to know what Mr. Rohee seeks to achieve with the statements made.The PPP/C is in the opposition. Being there after more than two decades in Government may not be the ideal situation the party expected or desires. That is understood. Having been dealt the hand of being placed in the Opposition by the citizens, the PPP/C owes this society some degree of prudence. Having to hear complaints, often in the absence of evidence, or being uptight when such is sought, will not help the growth of this society or the image of the party. Holding elected office is not an entitlement; it is a privilege granted by the people. Whether this privilege is to serve in the Opposition or Government, it is not one to be trifled with.

The General Secretary, at a press conference held in June 2015, said the PPP/C wanted GECOM Chairman Dr. Steve Surujbally to be removed. This is allegedly based on dissatisfaction with his performance. At this presser, when asked if the party will contest Local Government Elections (LGE) if the present chairman is at the helm, Mr. Rohee replied, “Not with Mr. Surujbally.”

The Party’s claim of poor performance was one the public was unaware of, until after 2015 General and Regional Elections.
LGE is next month. The PPP/C on Nomination Day submitted its List of Representatives. Dr. Surujbally is still at the helm of GECOM. It is understandable that a person/group can have a change of mind. In this regard, the PPP/C’s change of heart is noted. With that being said, the party is intensifying its claim that GECOM practices racial discrimination in its hiring practices.

None is fooled, given historical antecedents of conflicts primarily between Africans and East Indians, the latter being a majority of the PPP/C’s base. Racial discrimination is a serious accusation. It is reasonable to believe that if not both groups, at least one group would want proof. It is understandable why this would and should be a matter of concern, and this is not because Mr. Rohee has so accused.

Indeed, if racial discrimination is happening in hiring practices credibility/validity has to be established on some basic factors such as: (i) the number of applications based on race; (ii) how many met the qualifying conditions for the vacancies vis-a-vis race; (iii) were applicants rejected without being interviewed, and if so, how much vis-a-vis race; and (iv) was there a final criteria for securing the job (such as examination or attending training) and if so, what is the success rate vis-a-vis race.

The accusation by the General Secretary carries concomitant responsibility to show proof, given its dire implications. She/he who accuses shoulders the burden to provide proof. Here is where this society, supporters and non-supporters of the party, are deserving of being shown the evidence. Ours is a multiracial society. This paper editorialised on the importance of this nation reaching a stage where Equal Opportunity for all is a matter of practice (Equal Opportunity – 25th January, 2016) and remains interested in the goal being achieved.

It is our belief that Equal Opportunity can aid reduction in racial tension and forge a level playing field for all. It is hoped the General Secretary of the PPP/C has similar interest and desire. The majority of the population is 40 years and younger. Though constantly reminded or made aware of the racial conflicts of the 1960s, this segment of our population has never lived through the experience, and is content not to be constrained or held back by it. This is not to say there is presently an absence of racial tension, racism and prejudice; but in order for the nation to confront these, it requires honest, frank and open conversations, supported with the enabling laws and institutions. The task is now Mr. Rohee’s to help all Guyanese by providing the evidence on GECOM in order that conversations can be meaningful.