Natural Resources Minister has the support of all Guyanese

Dear Editor,
I listened keenly to the recent live Kaieteur Radio programme ‘Guyana’s Oil and You’, aired on August 13, 2020, wherein newly appointed Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. Vickram Bharrat, stated that the Irfaan Ali government would aggressively work towards ensuring all Guyanese benefit from the oil and gas sector.
Editor, it is human nature to have reservations about anything new, but this was quickly dissipated after listening to the new Minister, who has demonstrated that he has a grasp of the core issues relating to the natural resources sector, particularly oil and gas.
Therefore, I can say convincingly that I have a renewed sense of respect for this youthful Minister, who has a passion to serve all of Guyana with accountability and transparency. This is the hallmark of a new-generation leader, and I am sure he will make his government and, most importantly, the people of Guyana proud.
Over the past few days, I have witnessed Minister Bharrat’s engagement with the agencies under his control and his interaction with his staff, which I must say is statesmanlike and most admirable. Notwithstanding, we, the citizens of Guyana, will hold him accountable, and I believe he will deliver on his government’s promises, to ensure all Guyanese benefit from the abundance of our oil and gas sector.
Over the past five years, we had witnessed draconian rule over the natural resources sector, which created a lapse in policies and the necessary framework that is vital to support Guyana’s transitioning economy.
However, I would like to caution the Minister to take all necessary precautions to prevent any mismanagement within his sector, since Guyana is at a level of development which cannot be compromised and delayed any longer.
I take this opportunity, on behalf of many youthful Guyanese, to express our support to Minister Bharrat and his team as they work towards the best interest of all Guyanese.

Sincerely,
P Wong