From 2015 to 2020, Guyana experienced what many now describe as the most corrupt period in its post-independence history under the leadership of the APNU+AFC coalition. This era was marked by a series of scandals, questionable practices, and a blatant disregard for established governance norms, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s political and economic landscape.
Suspension of Tendering Processes
One of the most egregious actions taken by the APNU+AFC government was the widespread suspension of tendering processes for contracts. This practice undermined the principles of transparency and fair competition in public procurement, potentially costing taxpayers millions and opening the door to favoritism and corruption.
Non-Compliance with Integrity Laws
For three consecutive years, the coalition government failed to comply with the Integrity Commission Act2. This act, designed to ensure accountability among public officials, requires the submission of declarations of assets and income. The government’s non-compliance not only violated the law but also set a dangerous precedent, eroding public trust in the administration’s commitment to transparency.
Controversial Land Transfers
The coalition faced severe criticism for facilitating large-scale land transfers without proper financial compensation1. These transactions raised questions about the government’s stewardship of national assets and fueled suspicions of impropriety. Critics argue that these land deals potentially deprived the state of significant revenue and benefited a select few at the expense of the public interest.
Nepotism in Contract Awards
Perhaps most damaging to the coalition’s reputation were allegations of awarding contracts to companies associated with their members. This practice not only suggested a conflict of interest but also potentially diverted public funds into the pockets of political allies, undermining the integrity of the government’s procurement processes.
The Aftermath and Public Reaction
The revelations of these practices have sparked widespread outrage and debate in Guyana. Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, in a recent press conference, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “We now realize that period was a period in which we had the most corruption in our entire history”.
The impact of these actions extends beyond mere financial losses. They have eroded public trust in government institutions and raised serious questions about the coalition’s commitment to good governance. The current administration has pledged to address these issues, promising increased transparency and accountability in government operations.
Looking Forward
As Guyana moves forward, the legacy of the APNU+AFC coalition’s tenure serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust checks and balances in government. The country now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust in its institutions and ensuring that such widespread corruption and mismanagement do not recur.
The ongoing legal cases involving former public officials and ministers underscore the need for continued vigilance and reform in Guyana’s governance structures. As the nation approaches its next electoral cycle, the electorate will undoubtedly weigh heavily on this period of alleged corruption when making their choices at the ballot box.
The APNU+AFC coalition’s time in power will likely be remembered as a cautionary tale in Guyanese politics, highlighting the critical importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical governance in safeguarding the nation’s resources and future.
