Dear Editor
WHILE the “Dem Boys Sey Column” is satirical in nature, the editor must be keen in ensuring that the information therein is accurate. As one of the four major daily publications in Guyana, you are obligated to disseminate truth, since a large section of the masses — locally and in the diaspora — may be relying on this newspaper for information.
We are referring to the February 15, 2017 publication with the sub-headline, “Jagdeo is a real, real bad man.” The column asserted that “…Dem boys does also know sick people by de number of tablets dem does drink and that is how dem know that de whole of de Elections Commission sick. Dem boys sit down at de tender board yesterday and hear how GECOM want $75 million in drugs fuh this year. At first, people think was cocaine GECOM was buying, but Dr Steve seh that is not de case.”
How did you arrive at $75 million? Please be guided by this summary of the Tender Bids for the Medical Supplies that was opened on 14-Feb-2017:
Name of Tenderer Tendered Amount
Guyana Distributor Ltd. $1, 072, 740
International Pharmaceutical Agency $824,236
Gender Distribution $1,239, 528
The Family Store $1,262,850
Metro Office Supplies $709, 846
Regal Stationery and Computer Centre $1, 939, 140
This would not be the first instance of reckless journalism emanating from the Kaieteur News publication. It would not be the first time the information is grossly inaccurate. These inaccuracies seem to be perpetrated as a means to sensationalise. At the same time, you are malevolently making efforts to tarnish the image of an organisation. Start being professional.
Regards
Tamara Rodney
Public Relations Officer