Dear Editor,
ADVOCACY by Guyanese for maximum benefits from oil production and on environmental issues that may affect us is an important component of our national dialogue. It is not, however, aided by deliberate repetition of misinformation.
Melinda Janki’s recent webinar presentation contained falsities that rise to the level of contempt for the Caribbean Court of Justice, and may well attract their ire.
In the CCJ’s case, Janki had objected to Hess and CNOOC being listed on the Petroleum licence; however, the justices went to pains to explain that there was no issue, since Exxon was the sole operator.
It is in this context that I find it difficult to believe that Janki would choose to disregard the CCJ and state in her webinar: “The Petroleum Agreement says that Exxon, Hess and CNOOC can take as much oil as they need for the operations. So, when they produce the oil, they can take, each one of them, Exxon, Hess and CNOOC, can take as much oil as they say they need for their operations.” (Kaieteur News 3.9.24)
This level of dishonesty is unprecedented among those who are privileged to appear before our apex court, and the disrespect is palpable.
Guyanese need as many advocates as possible in every avenue of oil production, but in order to be effective, they must be credible. It is unfortunate that the loudest voices belong to those willing to subvert the truth expediently.
I close with a bit of advice for all those who advocate for a better Guyana from Michelle Obama: “We learned about honesty and integrity – that the truth matters… that you don’t take shortcuts or play by your own set of rules.”
Yours sincerely,
Robin Singh