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Georgetown, GUYANA (Credible Sources) The discovery of Toshao Ridley Joseph’s body in a hotel room at Signature Inn, Queenstown, has sparked grief and calls for action, with Indigenous Member of Parliament Dawn Hastings-Williams voicing strong concerns about the treatment of Indigenous leaders. Joseph, hailing from Tassarene village in Middle Mazaruni, was in Georgetown for a National Toshaos Council (NTC) executive meeting.
In a heartfelt statement, Hastings-Williams described the death of the Toshao as “troubling, unsettling, and disturbing.” She highlighted the critical role Toshaos play as leaders and advocates within their communities, likening their responsibilities to those of city mayors. “These Toshaos, or chiefs of village communities, are equivalent to a mayor of a city,” she emphasized, underscoring their significance and lamenting the ongoing struggles Indigenous people face.
Hastings-Williams criticized the treatment of Indigenous leaders, pointing to what she described as systemic neglect. She noted, “We, the Indigenous people, still continue to be treated as second-class citizens in this country.” Reflecting on the tragedy of the Mahdia dormitory fire last year, she questioned the government’s response, drawing parallels to the lack of clarity in addressing Toshao Joseph’s death.
The MP called for immediate changes to ensure the safety and dignity of Toshaos when they travel for official duties. She proposed that Toshaos be provided with 24/7 security while in Georgetown, or alternatively, be paid sufficiently to hire their own security. “The Toshaos are like mayors, and we all know that mayors are entitled to security guards or personnel,” Hastings-Williams argued. She also suggested that Toshaos be accommodated in more secure establishments.
Hastings-Williams expressed particular concern over the challenges Toshaos face in their roles, stating, “The Toshao is not only a leader… but ends up being everything, a jack of all trades.” She emphasized the sacrifices they make by leaving their families to attend meetings in Georgetown, often returning with “unsatisfactory answers” for their communities.
In her poignant appeal, Hastings-Williams urged Indigenous leaders and communities to unite and demand better treatment. She suggested that Toshao Joseph’s death could signify a larger threat, stating, “It seems now like Toshaos are being targeted, especially those who speak against the policies of the government.”
Calling for decisive action, Hastings-Williams said, “The discrimination against Indigenous people must stop, and it must stop now.” She urged the government to prioritize the safety and well-being of Toshaos, insisting that their voices and criticisms be respected and addressed constructively.
