In a strongly worded letter addressed to Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, Guyanese businessman Terrence Campbell has raised serious concerns about the state of democracy in Guyana. His letter, dated recently, was also sent to several Caribbean leaders, diplomatic missions, and international media outlets, seeking intervention before what he describes as a deepening slide into autocracy.
Campbell’s message directly references a statement made by Prime Minister Mottley in June 2020 regarding Guyana’s disputed elections, in which she advocated for inclusivity in governance, stating that “there must be room for all regardless of who wins and who loses.” However, in his letter, Campbell laments that this vision has not materialized, asserting that there is “only room for the winners and a close circle of friends.”
Allegations of Victimization
Campbell details his alleged victimization since the elections, including an incident in September 2020 when he was granted a waiver on penalties and interest by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). He claims that this routine waiver has since been weaponized against him by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who, according to Campbell, has used it as a tool for defamation.
Additionally, he alleges that he has been falsely labeled a racist and subjected to fabricated charges reported to the police. He further claims to have been placed under extensive police surveillance on 24 occasions and has received threats of further police action. While he acknowledges that authorities may deny these claims, he asserts that he possesses evidence to substantiate them.
A Call for Intervention
Campbell’s letter expresses deep concern about the erosion of democratic principles in Guyana, warning that the current trajectory could lead to increased social unrest. By reaching out to Prime Minister Mottley and other regional leaders – including Dr. Keith Rowley (Trinidad and Tobago), Ralph Gonsalves (St. Vincent and the Grenadines), Gaston Browne (Antigua and Barbuda), Dickon Mitchell (Grenada), and Chan Santokhi (Suriname) – he seeks their attention and intervention.
Diplomatic representatives from the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Canada have also been copied in the correspondence, signaling Campbell’s attempt to garner international scrutiny over the situation in Guyana.
The Broader Implications
Campbell’s claims, if accurate, paint a troubling picture of Guyana’s political landscape, raising questions about press freedom, political victimization, and the rule of law. His concerns echo broader fears that democratic institutions in the country may be under threat, particularly in the lead-up to future elections.
Prime Minister Mottley, known for her outspoken stance on regional governance and democracy, has yet to publicly respond to Campbell’s letter. However, given her previous role in advocating for a free and fair election process in Guyana, it remains to be seen whether she or other regional leaders will address these concerns.
Campbell concludes his letter with a plea for action: “There must be room for all.” Whether his call will lead to tangible responses from the international community remains uncertain, but it undeniably highlights the persistent political tensions in Guyana and the challenges facing its democratic framework.
