The Guyana government defends the “One Guyana” slogan on new passports as a unifying concept. Attorney General Nandlall dismissed opposition claims that it is a political slogan, while opposition legislator Desir criticized it as political propaganda. The debate reflects underlying tensions in Guyanese governance and national identity.
The Government of Guyana has robustly defended the inclusion of the slogan “One Guyana” on newly issued ten-year passports, rejecting accusations that it serves as a political catchphrase. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall clarified that the slogan represents a unifying concept integral to the nation’s identity, rather than a partisan message.
Mr. Nandlall stated, “The ‘One Guyana’ slogan is not a political slogan. It is a unifying concept. It denotes our national objective—one people, one nation, one common destiny.” This statement was made in response to critiques from opposition legislator Amanza Walton Desir, who argued that the slogan is an attempt by the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to merge party and state.
Desir expressed concerns in a media letter, asserting that the passport should remain a neutral document for all Guyanese, free from political influence. She emphasized, “A passport is not a party manifesto; it is a sovereign document of our nation. It belongs to ‘we the people’ and is issued in our name by the state.”
Furthermore, Desir raised alarm over the potential abuse of state resources for political branding, which she believes signals a deterioration of democratic principles. In contrast, Nandlall defended the usage of the slogan, stating it has been widely accepted and is also featured on the country’s GUY$2,000 banknote.
Nandlall asserted, “This government has every right to formulate a logo or slogan that captures its ethos… We want to project that in every one of our policies and programs. We make no apology for that.” He affirmed that the slogan is not tied to party politics but reflects the government’s commitment to national unity.
Despite the government’s justification, the discussion surrounding the slogan’s use emphasizes the ongoing friction between the ruling party and opposition, centering on the themes of governance and national identity in Guyana.
In conclusion, the Guyana government maintains that the “One Guyana” slogan on passports is a fundamental expression of national unity and not a political tool. The defense presented by Attorney General Anil Nandlall reflects an effort to embrace diversity and solidify a singular national identity amidst criticisms that suggest otherwise. This discourse underscores the persistent tension in Guyanese politics regarding the delineation between government identity and party affiliation.
Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com
