The recent statements by CEO of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves, underscore a critical issue facing Guyana today: squatting. Illegal land occupation is a pervasive problem that threatens to undermine the Government’s efforts to provide fair and orderly access to housing. As Greaves aptly pointed out during his visit to Phase 4, Amelia’s Ward/Fitz Hope in Linden this week, squatting is not only a blatant disregard for the rule of law, but also a deterrent to the nation’s housing goals. The Government has already made strides in regularising squatter settlements, but new instances of illegal occupation must be decisively addressed.
The severity of the situation is clear. Individuals have been fraudulently selling already-allocated lots, advising unsuspecting buyers to falsely claim long-term occupation. Such actions are not only illegal but deeply unethical. They exploit vulnerable citizens and foster a culture of lawlessness that cannot be tolerated. Greaves rightly warned that illegal structures will be demolished, and the Ministry will not honour claims from those involved in illicit activities. This firm stance must be applauded and reinforced with consistent action.
The issue of squatting is not new to Guyana. As Minister Susan Rodrigues recently noted, a 1990s study revealed over 200 informal settlements across the country, a consequence of poor housing policies and inadequate legislation at the time. To its credit, the current administration has regularised approximately 175 of these communities, demonstrating a commitment to resolving historical injustices. However, allowing new squatting settlements to spring up risks undoing this progress and complicating the path towards equitable housing for all.
What’s more, squatting creates broader problems for community development. It disrupts proper planning, infrastructure development, and the provision of essential services. For instance, the CH&PA has allocated $80 million to upgrade the road network in Amelia’s Ward. But such investments will be futile if illegal settlements continue to arise, creating chaotic and unsustainable environments. Squatting compromises the very infrastructure needed to elevate living standards.
The Government has a responsibility to all its citizens, especially those waiting patiently for their rightful access to housing. With demand for residential land steadily increasing, the CH&PA is actively seeking additional lands through agencies like the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) and the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL). Squatting disrupts this process and jeopardises the future allocation of land to legitimate applicants.
It is crucial for everyone – legitimate landowners, the government, and the wider public – to collaborate in ending squatting. Landowners must remain vigilant, reporting illegal activities and helping to prevent new squatting settlements from forming. The Government, in turn, must continue its proactive efforts to regularise existing settlements while firmly shutting down new ones.
The Government’s aggressive housing drive is a step in the right direction. Thousands of homes are being allocated, but this process must be allowed to proceed without interference from illegal land grabs. By ensuring that housing policies are enforced fairly and transparently, Guyana can move closer to a future where every citizen has access to a safe and secure home.
Squatting is illegal, unsustainable, and unjust.
