FITUG denounces statements by WPA leaders

The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) is deeply disturbed and appalled by open and unvarnished race baiting of Dr David Hinds and Tacuma Ogunseye during a recent public meeting organized by the Working Peoples’ Alliance (WPA). The exhortations of the two smacks of naked racism are a clear attempt to stir racial excitement in our country. And, quite rightly, have attracted a national outcry and a maelstrom of condemnation.

livelihoods of workers laid off by estate closure was severely compromised.

Why would Mr Lewis want to see an expansion of such hardships in our society? Certainly given his trade union credentials, which he never fails to tout, we would imagine that he would be supportive of policies which safeguard and protect the livelihoods of workers and their families. Are you a genuine trade unionist, Mr Lewis?

So Mr Lewis, the Government’s support is not aimed at GAWU contrary to your beliefs. But it is much broader than that and is in recognition of the invaluable contributions of an industry which built Guyana. It is saddening that in your narrow-minded, twisted diatribe you have not seen it fit to give recognition to such thrust. Then again, such examination may not suit your divisive propaganda.

It seems that Comrade Lincoln is living in his own wonderland and where he chooses to believe his own make believe. We are hopeful he can get the help he seems to need.

The Federation, in as much at it remains a staunch upholder and defender of free speech and expression remains firm that both Dr Hinds and Mr Ogunseye have crossed several moral and ethical boundaries. We are firm that such sentiments have no place in our society and their racial overtones may have well run afoul of our legislation seeking to promote racial harmony and cohesion.

Given our country’s difficult past of tenuous race relations, the expressions by the leaders of the WPA demand our widest condemnation. They have no place and should be confined to the dust bin of history. To engage in such narratives, in our view, demonstrates how far the WPA has drifted from its multi-ethnic moorings. Indeed, its founders must be turning wherever they maybe. It also indicates that the political grouping has really nothing really to add to the national discourse and has chosen to decent to the pits in an effort to seek to remain relevant though, it really should be ostracized.

At this time, the FITUG call on all peace-loving and decent-minded Guyanese to reject the false narratives being peddled by personalities who are looking at self-interest rather than the national well-being.