As United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives in Guyana, he comes at a crucial time in our nation’s history—a moment where the glitter of economic growth, fueled by the burgeoning oil industry, must be carefully examined alongside the broader health of our democracy.
Guyana is in the midst of an economic boom, but that prosperity is not the sole reflection of the state of our nation. It is vital that the Secretary of State takes a holistic view of the situation, one that includes engaging with a wide cross-section of society—not just government officials—but opposition leaders, media representatives, and civil society organisations as well.
Democracy, as we all know, is a fragile thing. It can be easily taken for granted in times of economic prosperity, but it is precisely in such moments that it requires the most vigilance. A country’s economy may shine brightly, but without robust democratic institutions and practices, that gleam may hide deeper fractures beneath the surface.
Guyana’s democracy is still evolving, and while it has made strides, challenges remain. To have a genuine understanding of the state of our democracy, it is essential for the Secretary of State to meet with not only government officials but also opposition leaders who play a critical role in ensuring a functioning democracy. After all, a healthy democracy requires dissent, dialogue, and debate.
The media, too, has a vital role to play. In an era where information is more accessible than ever, the media serves as the gatekeeper to truth. However, the media in Guyana faces its own set of challenges, ranging from accusations of bias to the struggle for press freedom. Engaging with the Media Association will provide a nuanced perspective on the role of the press in this evolving democracy and offer insights into the state of freedom of expression in the country.
The threat to free, fair, and credible elections cannot be ignored, especially given the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) refusal to ensure a clean Voter’s List and implement biometric measures to prevent fraud—such as dead people voting, multiple voting, and ineligible voters. These issues were prevalent during the 2020 elections and significantly impacted the integrity of the results.
Moreover, civil society—comprising NGOs, grassroots organisations, and community activists—represents the heart and soul of any thriving democracy. These voices often go unheard by government officials but are the ones closest to the people. Engaging with them will offer a window into the lived experiences of Guyanese citizens and how the broader populace perceives their government and institutions.
As the Secretary of State navigates this visit, it is important to recall that all that glitters is not gold. Guyana may have economic potential that is envied around the world, but it is essential to remember that growth without inclusivity and democratic integrity is no true measure of progress.
Meetings with government officials alone cannot provide a complete or balanced understanding of the country’s state. We must ensure that dialogue includes the voices of all Guyanese, from opposition parties to civil society, from the media to the everyday citizens whose lives are impacted by the decisions made in Georgetown.
To the Secretary of State: as you step into our vibrant yet evolving democracy, we encourage you to keep an open mind and a balanced perspective. Guyana’s future is shaped not only by those in power today but by the voices of all Guyanese—voices that deserve to be heard and respected.
Democracy is a precious gift, and as friends and partners of the United States, we trust that your visit will reflect a deep commitment to supporting Guyana in its democratic journey, ensuring that it remains strong, resilient, and inclusive for all.