MINISTER of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, has issued a strong rebuke to the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, condemning its recent statement regarding the commencement of the 2024 National Toshaos Conference (NTC).
Minister Sukhai described the Opposition’s remarks as a clear indication of their “panic and desperation” in the face of the unwavering support the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) continues to receive from the Amerindian population.
The Minister criticised the Opposition, specifically the APNU+AFC coalition, for attempting to fabricate a negative narrative merely after the opening ceremony of the conference.

She emphasised that the National Toshaos Council, which is the rightful custodian of the event, traditionally oversees a full week of substantive, direct, and intensive engagements with the government and state agencies on matters crucial to hinterland development.
Minister Sukhai suggested that the Opposition’s anxiety stems from the government’s continued commitment to expanding employment initiatives across Amerindian communities—a process that is set to be reinforced by the discussions and requests expected to unfold during the conference.
“Our government remains resolute in our commitment to the sustainable development of our hinterland communities,” Sukhai stated, highlighting the government’s long-standing efforts through the land titling programme, the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), funding via the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent mechanism, the Community Service Officers initiative, annual budgetary allocations, and both planned and emergency interventions.

Minister Sukhai expressed confidence that the Amerindian population would remember the APNU+AFC’s history of neglect, abandonment, and hostile treatment towards hinterland communities during their time in office. She emphasised that the PPP/C government’s dedication to these communities has been unwavering for decades, and that the majority of Amerindian citizens are likely to continue their support for the current administration.
As the National Toshaos Conference progresses, Minister Sukhai reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the voices of the Amerindian people are heard and their needs addressed, reinforcing the PPP/C’s enduring relationship with these communities.