Guyana Government Defends ‘One Guyana’ Slogan on New Passports

The Guyana government defends the inclusion of the slogan “One Guyana” on passports, asserting it is a unifying concept. Opposition legislator Amanza Walton Desir critiques this as political manipulation. Attorney General Anil Nandlall emphasizes the slogan’s role in fostering national unity, despite ongoing tensions between political parties over governance.

The government of Guyana has firmly defended the inclusion of the slogan “One Guyana” on newly issued 10-year passports, asserting that it serves as a national unifying concept rather than a partisan one. Attorney General Anil Nandlall clarified that this slogan represents the country’s goal of unity across its diverse cultures, describing it as a rallying cry for shared identity and common destiny.

Responding to criticism from opposition legislator Amanza Walton Desir, who accused the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) of politicizing the passport, Nandlall articulated that the slogan is not affiliated with any political agenda. Desir contended that the inclusion of a political slogan in a public document undermines its neutrality and perpetuates government propaganda.

Desir further stated in a media letter that passports should be free from any political undertones, reinforcing that they are sovereign documents issued on behalf of the people. She alleged that this move reflects attempts to manipulate national identity and threatens democratic institutions, claiming it signifies a slide towards authoritarianism.

In contrast, Nandlall emphasized that the “One Guyana” slogan has been utilized in various national endeavors, reinforcing its acceptance in public discourse. He defended the government’s prerogative to adopt a slogan that encapsulates its vision of national unity, stating it reflects core values rather than partisanship.

Despite the government’s position, the controversy surrounding the slogan’s presence on official documents underscores the persistent strife between the ruling party and opposition factions regarding governance and notions of national identity in Guyana.

In summary, the Guyanese government maintains that the “One Guyana” slogan is a source of national unity, contrary to opposition claims that it represents political interference. The ongoing debate around this issue illuminates the complexities of political identity and governance in Guyana. The Attorney General’s affirmations highlight the government’s aim to promote inclusiveness, but concerns regarding the appropriation of public symbols persist within the political landscape.

Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com