THE recent revelation by New York State Senator Roxanne J Persaud regarding the false narratives pushed by Guyana’s opposition brings to light a troubling and persistent issue: the weaponisation of misinformation to stoke division and erode national unity.

The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), once again, finds itself dodging responsibility for its baseless claims, a strategy that does little more than harm the country it claims to serve.

For too long, the opposition, along with its affiliated activists, has peddled a narrative of racial discrimination and poor governance, in attempts to tarnish Guyana’s international reputation. But when questioned about the validity of these claims, as seen at the recent press conference, PNCR officials resorted to deflection. Their refusal to address the inconsistencies in their rhetoric reveals a fundamental truth: they lack the evidence to back up their accusations.

What Senator Persaud and her colleagues experienced during their October 2023 visit to Guyana sharply contrasts with the picture the opposition attempts to paint. Persaud’s testimony is clear—Guyana is on an upward trajectory, marked by impressive development and sound economic management under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government. The visiting delegation, which included Senator Kevin Parker and Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman, left Guyana with a positive impression, one that counters the grim outlook espoused by the opposition.

It is not just the PNCR’s dishonesty that is concerning, but also their continued use of race-baiting tactics to sow discord. By framing Guyana’s progress as exclusionary and discriminatory, they exploit the sensitive issue of race to foster division. This dangerous narrative does not only undermine the government, but also weakens the social fabric of a nation striving for inclusivity.

Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo has rightly pointed out that mechanisms, such as the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), exist to address any real cases of discrimination. The commission, constitutionally empowered to investigate and address racial grievances, has yet to receive any reports from the opposition on the widespread racial discrimination they claim exists. This silence speaks volumes. It suggests that these accusations are not grounded in reality, but rather serve as a political tool to rally support by any means necessary.

The international community, as represented by the visiting delegation, has seen the truth. Guyana is a country moving forward, not backward. The opposition’s persistent attempts to block this progress by using divisive rhetoric do not serve the nation’s interests. Instead, they hinder efforts to build a unified, prosperous future for all Guyanese.

The PPP/C government, under the leadership of President, Dr Irfaan Ali, has shown a commitment to development that transcends ethnic and political lines. This government’s work speaks for itself, and as Senator Persaud emphasised, Guyana’s development is evident to all who take the time to see it. No amount of noise from detractors can obscure the truth.

It is time for the opposition to abandon its divisive tactics and engage in constructive dialogue. The people of Guyana deserve leaders who prioritise national unity over political gain. In a rapidly developing country, there is no place for false narratives that seek to undermine progress for the sake of power. Guyana’s future is bright—if only we can see beyond the smoke and mirrors.