Guyanese Oil Barons, 007, and Citizenship

Dear Editor,

Before compiling this piece, I checked the “Corruption Index”; which has been around for over 23 years, just to be sure Guyana hadn’t been placed on the list yet. The hue and cry over the Minister of Tourism’s American citizenship is ridiculous; compared to so much more that is going on. A small matter, into a big fuss; regardless of what the rules state. It is most ironic that 99% of Guyanese including those in the interior, have relatives in the US. Is the message that having dual citizenship does not prove allegiance of some sort to this country?

A few days ago, we were informed of our local 007’s “slush” fund of US$1M from the land deals. We read eye watering details of how: 1) US$55B was given away in the Exxon deal; 2) Guyana owes Canje Owners $100M in pre-contract cost; 3) $7B missing in Canje/Kaieteur block arrangement. This as we all know is an ugly abbreviated list. On and On and On. Oil barons are in our midst in this small country, who have short changed us, guilt free, with their privileged Guyanese citizenship.

These pervasive acts of greed, incompetence, are all done by individuals holding Guyanese citizenship. How ironic. Once again; Is the thought that certain governmental positions should only be held by individuals who exclusively have Guyanese citizenship, and that proves allegiance of some sort to Guyana? Are we serious?

I would hope that the elusive oil barons that want to taint this country, including our local 007’s at least for starters, are put on the “No-Fly” list. They should not go out to enjoy what does not belong to them. Stay here.

Yours Truly,
Chi Kansi