Consultative democracy is example practiced through outreaches being practiced by the PPP/C Gov’t

Vice President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has declared that the PPP/C Administration has placed consultative democracy high on its transformative agenda, and as such, the massive community outreaches ongoing by the administration are an ultimate proof of conscionable leadership, which the country lacked five years before August 2020.

Dr. Jagdeo expressed this view at a Press Conference last Friday. The VP explained the rationale behind the consultation sessions, noting that the forums allow residents to communicate directly with the policy makers. “An essential part of our ethos as the People’s Progressive Party, that is keeping in touch with people on the ground, which arose out of the philosophy of our party that we must remain engaged, not aloof in government,” Dr. Jagdeo said in explaining the importance of the consultations.

Dr. Jagdeo revealed that the best form of engagement, is to gather information directly from the people, cutting out the middleman. He stressed that the ultimate test of a participatory democracy is allowing the voices of the citizens to be heard. “And the only way you can have feedback as to what’s really happening in the country, and how your policies are affecting people, is if you go directly on the ground and listen to them,” Dr. Jagdeo reiterated.

The Vice President disclosed that the criticisms emanating from a particular section of society about the government meeting residents at the grass root level, will not stop the administration’s plans.  “It is an important thing when people can fearlessly stand up and say to the President or any government authority how they feel and even criticise them, that’s good for democracy in a country,” he argued.

The former President pointed out too, that Guyanese have waited for a very long time to have many important issues addressed. Meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali and Dr. Jagdeo have been leading ministerial outreaches to a number of regions across the country. It was revealed that the government has already received high commendation from residents within these districts. Regions Two, Five, Six and Ten have already been covered through the outreaches.

Further, many communities will see the rehabilitation of a number of roads and other infrastructural projects, while money has been set aside to offer part-time jobs to stimulate household income.  Additionally, it was noted that residents will benefit from small grants, valuing up to $250,000 to aid the establishment or development of their business. Co-investment opportunities were also offered during the meetings.

Meanwhile, despite a number of cabinet members have already held their individual outreaches in all 10 regions, the full team will return to host community engagements. It was stated that though the country’s wider transformative plan is critical, the Vice President stressed that government intends to balance the major projects, even as it moves to resolve the daily issues of citizens.

Dr. Jagdeo added that the more people on the ground understand the administration’s agenda, they will see that Guyana is on a journey to becoming wealthy.