The V-PAC movement, led by its Chairman, Mr. Dorwain Alpha Bess, welcomes the reaffirmed support of the United States in the face of Venezuela’s continued provocative actions against the sovereign territory of Guyana. The presence of the U.S. Secretary of State and strong words of solidarity—particularly regarding Guyana’s territorial integrity—are appreciated by all peace-loving Guyanese.
However, while the visit of such a high-ranking U.S. official is notable, the people of Guyana cannot overlook the deeper implications of his remarks—or lack thereof. Amid growing economic and governance concerns, the Secretary of State’s apparent endorsement of the current administration raises questions about the broader message being sent to citizens struggling with day-to-day hardships.
Of particular concern is the Secretary’s post-visit criticism of Guyana’s crumbling infrastructure. His own experience with our dangerously substandard roads, underlines what ordinary Guyanese endure daily. Yet, instead of acknowledging the root causes— corruption, cronyism, and politically manipulated contract awards—blame was shifted to foreign contractors. This deflection does a disservice to the truth.
It is well known that numerous road-building and infrastructural contracts have been funneled to individuals and entities with close political ties to the administration, many of whom lack the capacity or integrity to deliver quality work. The result? Billions of taxpayers’ dollars wasted, roads that fall apart within months, and communities left without safe, reliable infrastructure. The poor state of Guyana’s roads is not a foreign problem—it is a failure of domestic accountability and governance.
V-PAC reiterates that this is not an attack but a call for realism. Corruption has consequences. It undermines public trust, damages lives, and stalls national progress. The billions squandered through mismanagement and political patronage could and should have been directed toward improving public healthcare, addressing the rising cost of living, and ensuring economic opportunities for all—not just the well-connected.
Moreover, V-PAC takes note of the seemingly veiled political endorsement by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio. While foreign partnerships are vital, they must not blind our allies to the governance deficiencies that hamper true development. Democracy, after all, is more than free elections—it is accountability, transparency, and equitable progress.
We therefore urge the United States and all international partners to hold the Government of Guyana to the same standards they promote globally—standards rooted in good governance, anti-corruption, and responsible use of public resources. Anything less sends the wrong message to the thousands of Guyanese who are crying out for real change.
V-PAC remains committed to advocating for a better Guyana—one free from the shackles of corruption and inequality. We welcome international solidarity in safeguarding our sovereignty, but we insist that such support must not come at the cost of turning a blind eye to the realities on the ground.