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Georgetown, Guyana — The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) has called on the political opposition to adopt a more militant and proactive stance in addressing what the union describes as persistent government overreach and political dysfunction. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, GTUC President Norris Witter and General Secretary Lincoln Lewis expressed deep concern over what they see as the erosion of democratic norms and the opposition’s ineffective resistance to growing political and economic challenges.
“There is need for greater political militancy in this society,” said veteran trade unionist Lewis. He emphasized that the opposition must “oppose through governance and stand with the people to demand better.” The GTUC criticized the opposition for merely conforming to parliamentary norms without taking impactful actions. According to Witter, such passivity amounts to complicity in what the GTUC perceives as growing governmental authoritarianism.
The union highlighted the necessity of collaboration between civic groups, political parties, and the GTUC to combat what it described as “political tyranny.” Witter urged for a unified front, asserting that “no one party or individual has the answer to the nation’s problems.” He further underscored the constitutional mandate of inclusivity, emphasizing that opposition leaders should assert themselves and play an active role in defending workers’ rights and promoting fairness in governance.
The GTUC lamented the absence of strong parliamentary allies, which it views as critical to effectively representing the interests of the working class. “We need allies,” said Lewis, calling for a broader coalition of political and civil forces to challenge the status quo and bring about meaningful change.
Amid these criticisms, the GTUC reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with political and civic organizations whose goals align with those of the union. Witter stressed that while alliances are essential, they must be based on shared values and mutual respect: “This is not about generating publicity; it’s about developing a cogent and constructive plan to bring about change.”
Beyond its censure of the opposition, the GTUC also addressed concerns surrounding the government’s cash grant program, questioning its transparency and fairness. The union labeled the practice of photo and data collection for cash grant recipients as suspicious and criticized the absence of legislation to ensure accountability. Additionally, the GTUC raised alarms over economic inequality, youth unemployment, and what it called the government’s failure to adequately include all stakeholders in decision-making processes affecting the nation’s wealth and welfare.
