THE recent actions of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in national policy-making discussions have once again highlighted their shallow approach to governance. As the opposition continues its incessant heckling, it becomes clear that their criticisms are nothing more than a smokescreen to cover up their own shortcomings.

The track record of APNU is abysmal, and the current government has to clean up the mess they created. It seems they are even too embarrassed to address their past failures, and when they do speak up, their words only expose the hollowness of their arguments.

While the opposition members are quick to criticize, they never provide any constructive recommendations. This is evident in their absence from the National Assembly during deliberations on the National Resources Fund (NRF) Act. The previous NRF Act, which was passed after the successful “no confidence” motion against the APNU+AFC Coalition, had mismanaged the sovereign wealth fund.

During their time in opposition, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) had expressed concerns about various aspects of the NRF Act, particularly the need for transparent management of resources. The new Act addresses these concerns by significantly enhancing accountability and transparency in fund withdrawals.

However, instead of engaging in meaningful discussions and offering alternative solutions, APNU resorts to antics and gimmicks to divert attention from the truth. It is clear that they lack any substantial positions on these matters.

Another example of their silence on matters of national interest is the Data Protection Bill 2023. This bill is crucial for aligning Guyana with international standards on data protection and privacy, as well as regulating implementation of the electronic identification card system. Surprisingly, the main opposition provided no input on this critical issue.

When it comes to the Petroleum Activities Bill, APNU’s commentary lacks substance. They demonstrate a lack of technical skills and fail to provide any constructive suggestions to the government. The Petroleum Bill is a modern and comprehensive replacement for the outdated Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act (1986), and the concerns raised by the opposition have already been addressed elsewhere.

In contrast, while in opposition, the PPP consistently emphasized its commitment to assisting the government with measures that would benefit the people. Unfortunately, the APNU+AFC coalition will be remembered as one of the worst-performing governments of the 21st century. Despite campaigning on job creation, their tenure witnessed more job losses than job creation. Former President, David Granger’s dismissive response to questions about the promised job opportunities, suggesting that individuals should sell plantain chips and cookup rice, further highlights their lack of seriousness.

Adding insult to injury, the APNU+AFC coalition left Guyana in dire financial straits upon leaving office in 2020. The once-healthy gold reserves, which stood at $15 billion when they assumed power, had dwindled to less than $1 billion by May 2020. Such mismanagement and fiscal irresponsibility are unacceptable.

Moreover, the APNU+AFC administration’s actions have exacerbated racial tensions in Guyana, hindering the healing process from years of segregation and acrimony. Despite campaigning on the principles of racial inclusion and unity, their divisive moves only served to further divide the people.

It is evident that APNU lacks a clear vision for themselves and the country. Their shameless criticism of all developmental efforts under the PPP government, which aims to uplift all Guyanese and eradicate poverty through President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s “One Guyana” initiative only demonstrates their desperation and lack of substantial ideas.

It is time for APNU to reflect on their actions, put forward constructive recommendations, and genuinely contribute to the betterment of Guyana. Merely heckling from the sidelines and resorting to shallow tactics will not benefit the nation or its people.