Irresponsible, insular, petty, reckless, partisan politics has no place in Guyana

Dear Editor,
The Central Islamic Organization of Guyana (CIOG) hereby registers its stern disappointment with the mistreatment of the Minister of Public Service, Honourable Sonia Parag, while she was on duty in the community of Belladrum, West Coast Berbice on Tuesday.
Reports are that the Minister had gone to the community to meet with residents on matters relating to scholarships and other training and developmental opportunities, particularly for the youths. Minister Parag was reportedly barred, for the second time in less than two weeks, from entering a community centre which residents had requested her to visit as a follow-up to an earlier Presidential commitment.
News reports further indicated that the Minister was also subject to the hostile and threatening behaviours displayed by a male Opposition Member of Parliament.
The CIOG categorically states that at a time when Guyana’s developmental trajectory is on the precipice, no irresponsible, insular, petty, reckless and partisan politics should have any place across our socio-economic landscape. This current development, which sees tangible benefits for all Guyanese across every stratum of our society, cannot, and should not, be held hostage.
Moreover, we find it disturbing that deliberate efforts are being made to hinder development in certain areas, all for political mileage.
CIOG, as both a religious and civic body, wishes to unequivocally condemn these actions, and remind all Guyanese that respect, equality and harmony are the cornerstones of any prosperous nation.
Further, as a country with a history of racial tensions, CIOG recognises and appreciates the efforts of the Dr Irfaan Ali-led Government to reach out to all communities across the country.
Further, CIOG wishes to appeal to all politicians and political parties to conduct themselves in a responsible and respectable manner, and to put the development of Guyana and its people above all else.

Sincerely,
The Central
Executive Council