Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has reiterated the government’s strong commitment to the consultation, development, and political freedom of Guyana’s Amerindian communities, promising continued engagement and tangible support for the country’s First Peoples.
Addressing more than 200 Amerindian leaders at the National Toshaos Council Conference this week, Dr. Jagdeo emphasized that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is deeply rooted in respecting the political freedoms of all Guyanese, including Indigenous citizens who may not support the current administration. “We respect the people and their political freedom in this country,” he declared, assuring that the government will continue to engage directly with elected village leaders and ensure that all citizens can compare past and present governance for themselves.
Dr. Jagdeo outlined several key priorities for Amerindian villages, including improved healthcare services, enhanced support for children and the elderly, job creation, sports development, and better security. These initiatives, he noted, are already underway and will be accelerated in the coming years. He also stressed the importance of financial literacy and rights awareness, pledging that the government will work closely with communities to strengthen these areas.
In response to recent criticisms from the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) regarding the level of consultation on the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) 2030, Dr. Jagdeo firmly challenged the group’s assertions. He insisted that all LCDS projects are approved at the village level, in public meetings, and in accordance with community-led planning. “Every village that gets the money has to submit a plan that has to be approved in a public meeting in the village,” he explained, adding that every dollar spent is done with the approval of the people in the communities.
The Vice President also announced new financial initiatives, including a $3 million allocation to each village to address housing issues, managed by the village councils themselves. This is in addition to more than $14 billion in carbon credit revenues disbursed to Amerindian communities over the past three years under the LCDS 2030. Dr. Jagdeo provided figures showing that Amerindian villages have received significant direct benefits, with allocations maintained even in years of reduced overall revenue.
He addressed the unique challenges faced by interior communities, such as high freight costs and limited infrastructure, and proposed solutions including the possible establishment of a government-operated airline to reduce transportation expenses. Plans are also in place to upgrade and expand airstrips to improve access to remote areas.
Dr. Jagdeo concluded by urging Amerindian leaders to ensure their population data is verified to maximize future allocations and encouraged communities to speak out about both progress and ongoing challenges. “You would see us more in the communities,” he said. “You’ll see others too, who come around, but you will know the difference.”
As the conference continues, Amerindian leaders are expected to engage further with the government to address pressing issues and advance the well-being of their residents, reaffirming a partnership aimed at uplifting all of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples.
