In a fiery letter published today, Jermaine Figueira, Member of Parliament (MP), blasted the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government for its “ad hoc” rollout and management of key programmes that should be aimed at supporting citizens, particularly the $100,000 cash grant initiative.
His comments come in the wake of Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s recent admission that the country’s construction projects, while necessary, have been poorly coordinated and executed.
The MP also echoed concerns raised by Jagdeo about the construction boom in the country, citing ongoing disruptions in communities like Linden, where road projects have caused significant inconvenience.
[T]he simultaneous construction of multiple interconnected roads has created significant disruptions. Residents are left without alternative routes, severely impacting their ability to commute to work, their place of business, or to return home.” said Figueira. “This lack of planning and foresight highlights the government’s failure to prioritise the needs of the people.”
The parliamentarian who represents Region 10, further criticised the government’s reliance on a single concrete supplier in Linden, which he claims has contributed to delays in completing road works. By not engaging multiple suppliers, the government has exacerbated delays and inconvenienced residents, he stated. “This lack of resource management is unacceptable.”
In addition to the ongoing issues with construction, Figueira condemned the government’s treatment of seniors and vulnerable citizens who have been subjected to long waits and poor customer service during the cash grant distribution process. Many seniors have been forced to stand in long lines, often in harsh weather conditions, only to be told their names aren’t on the list, or they need to go to another location, he lamented. “This is unacceptable.”
The parliamentarian also called for a more efficient, transparent, and dignified system for the disbursement of cash grants. He emphasised the importance of leveraging technology and better planning to streamline the process and ensure timely payments.
He also noted that the government must ensure respect and courtesy from those responsible for managing these programmes. He expressed concern that some political actors have been disrespectful in their approach, contributing to the chaos they’ve helped create.
Figueira concluded by calling for immediate action. While the Vice President’s comments are a step in the right direction, they must be followed by concrete actions to address the systemic failures, he urged. “It is our collective responsibility and duty as responsible citizens to hold the government accountable for these shortcomings and to advocate for the interests of the people.”
The MP has vowed that the opposition will continue to demand greater accountability and transparency, and work towards alternative solutions that prioritise the well-being of the people.