Opposition condemns PPP’s flying of party flags at convention centre
The Opposition has come out in condemnation of what it terms the illegal use of People’s Progressive Party (PPP) flags at state-owned buildings and across the country.
A release yesterday from the Office of the Leader of the Opposition noted that the PPP was flying its party flag and symbols throughout the country outside of election periods and was specifically displaying its flags at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, which is currently being used as the Parliament of Guyana.
The Opposition has interpreted these actions as a “blatant” disregard for established laws and international conventions, which it posits, not only undermines the principles of decency and democracy but also sets a dangerous precedent that prioritises party interests over national unity and respect for the rule of law.
The release referred to the era in Guyana’s history when the PPP objected to the flying of PNC party flags on state buildings when it (the PNC) was in government. It stated that in the end, the PNC in government bowed to the national consensus and ended this practice. As such, it sees the PPP as taking Guyana back to an era which all agreed should be left behind. “It is in this context we see the practice as politically destabilising and a threat to democratic principles and practices in Guyana. We call on the PPP to end this practice immediately!”
The Opposition reminded that the laws of Guyana explicitly prohibit the flying of party flags after elections and on government buildings and that these regulations are in place to ensure that political parties do not exert undue influence or assert party paramountcy over state institutions. Therefore, it considers the PPP’s flouting of these laws as demonstrating a lack of respect for the people of Guyana while clearly signalling that its main aim is “the total control and domination of Guyana,” which all Guyanese must reject.
According to the release, apart from violating the nation’s laws, the act of prominently displaying party flags and symbols across Guyana, even when there are no elections taking place, sends a troubling message that party interests supersede national unity and cohesion and creates an environment where partisan allegiances are prioritised over collective progress and inclusivity. “Such actions erode public trust in the political process and sow division among citizens, ultimately weakening the fabric of society and sending the signal that the ‘One Guyana’ mantra is a farce.”
As such the statement called on the PPP/C to “immediately cease” the unauthorised display of party flags and adhere to the laws and conventions that govern such practices. “It is imperative that all political parties in Guyana uphold democratic values, respect the rule of law, and prioritize national interests above partisan agendas. Failure to do so threatens the stability and harmony of the nation.”