The Guyanese Government is criticized for featuring the slogan “One Guyana” in new passports, with Opposition MP Amanza Walton-Desir arguing that this endangers democratic norms. She emphasizes the need for passports to be neutral and conform to international standards, contending that such actions blur the lines between the State and political parties.
The Government of Guyana faces criticism from the Opposition and citizens over the inclusion of the political slogan “One Guyana” within the new passport design. Opposition Member of Parliament Amanza Walton-Desir highlighted this issue, arguing that such a move reflects a blatant crossing of boundaries that could lead to a one-party state dictatorship. She criticized the government for using a passport—a national sovereign document—as a tool for political messaging, emphasizing that it should remain neutral and representative of all citizens.
Walton-Desir noted that this political tagging undermines democratic norms and compromises institutional integrity, as the passport should belong to all Guyanese, irrespective of political beliefs. She further argued that embedding political slogans into national passports contravenes international standards, particularly the guidelines from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which advocates for neutrality and non-discrimination in passport design.
Additionally, the Opposition MP pointed out that this act is not isolated, referencing similar uses of the “One Guyana” slogan on uniforms of law enforcement and public servants’ apparel. She condemned the utilization of state resources for political branding as indicative of a decline in democracy and the rise of authoritarianism. Walton-Desir contended that the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) now mirrors the very actions it previously criticized the People’s National Congress (PNC) for, while raising concerns over national identity being superseded by party allegiance.
She urged the international community to remain vigilant regarding these developments, while calling on citizens to resist such drifts toward authoritarianism. The same PPP, when in opposition, condemned the previous government for politicizing state images, yet has adopted similar practices since assuming power, suggesting a troubling trend in governance. The slogan “One Guyana” has notably been promoted at various official events and incorporated into signage in certain communities.
In summary, the Government of Guyana’s decision to feature the “One Guyana” political slogan in its passport has sparked significant debate, particularly from the Opposition. Critics argue that this blurs the lines between government and partisan politics, undermining democratic principles. Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding compliance with international passport design standards. Calls for awareness and resistance against the politicization of state resources underscore the potential dangers facing Guyanese democracy.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
