Release Date: August 22, 2020
The document calls for a new political approach in Guyana, emphasizing the need for participatory democracy to complement representative politics1. It criticizes the ethnic and winner-take-all politics that have led to societal polarization and suggests that reforms are unlikely to come from the current Parliament due to historical reluctance and recent animosity between major parties. The document highlights Article 13 of the Constitution, which involves civic organizations in state management and decision-making, and advocates for its implementation, particularly in the management of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) to ensure that oil wealth benefits all Guyanese and future generations. It concludes by urging the government to involve civil society in decision-making processes meaningfully, fostering a sense of belonging and political renewal across traditional divides. The document is endorsed by various Guyanese organizations.