Dear Editor,

THE Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) has long presented itself as a defender of civil society and a watchdog for human rights and governance in Guyana.

But, if one were to closely examine the GHRA’s activism over the years, they would recognise a pattern: that the GHRA has assumed the role of an unrelenting critic of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government.

A critic which remained conspicuously silent during the tenure of the previous administration. This convenient approach to advocacy and activism not only undermines the association’s own credibility but also highlights the fact that some NGOs opt to serve as political antagonists as opposed to advocates for good governance.

Editor, NGOs play a critical role in shaping public policy, ensuring government accountability, and advocating for marginalised groups. However, their effectiveness depends on their ability to engage constructively with governments and other stakeholders, rather than positioning themselves as perpetual adversaries.

The GHRA, in its current posture, has failed to recognise this crucial balance and this is why it has been ineffective over the years.

A truly responsible NGO does not simply oppose government policies but also proposes viable alternatives and seeks common ground to benefit citizens.

The association’s repeated attacks on the PPP Government, rather than focusing on evidence-based policy critiques, has done little to advance meaningful discourse.

Ask yourself what positive change has the GHRA effected through its advocacy over the years. Instead of fostering collaboration to address national issues such as sustainable development, poverty reduction, and human rights protections, the association appears intent on maintaining an adversarial stance.

Editor, there is no doubt that the GHRA’s selective activism and antagonistic stance towards the PPP government has diminished its standing as a credible human rights body.

But, if the association genuinely seeks to be the conscience of society, as it claims, it must adopt a more principled and balanced approach in its activism.

NGOs, like GHRA, must engage governments constructively, not as political opponents, but as partners in development.

I end by positing that a truly independent NGO would challenge all administrations equally, engage in meaningful dialogue, and work toward solutions that improve the lives of all Guyanese; not serve as a political antagonist whose activism is seasonal.

Yours respectfully,

Ravin Singh