By Mark DaCosta- In what some commentators are calling a heavy-handed approach, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government, through Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, has sent eviction notices to residents of Peter’s Hall on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD). This move, coming after failed negotiations for land acquisition for the new Demerara Harbour Bridge, has sparked expressions of frustration and concern among affected residents.
One political analyst expressed the view that Minister Edghill’s remarks encapsulate the government’s callous disregard for the welfare of our citizens: “We have signed the relevant orders; the one-month period has passed; all the lands are now vested with the state and we are simply moving ahead with the project.” These eviction notices, served recently, will force residents to uproot their lives within a month.
Despite attempts to reach a compromise, only six out of 21 residents accepted compensation packages offered by the PPP government, prompting the government to resort to compulsory acquisition. Minister Edghill’s authoritarian stance echoes through his words: “It is either you accept the offer with government or the government is compelled to follow the package that the court will determine.”
The proposed new Demerara Harbour Bridge symbolises the government’s priorities, prioritising infrastructure development over the livelihoods of citizens. While touted as a feat of engineering prowess, the bridge’s construction has come at the expense of disenfranchised communities. Project Engineer Patrick Thompson’s gave a technical description of the project: “The main tower will link the 300-metre span from the western side to the eastern side of the bridge.” Thompson’s words made no mention of the human cost of the PPP government’s actions.
According to the ruling PPP regime, financial arrangements for the bridge include a contract valued at US$260 million signed with China Railway and Construction Corporation Limited (CRCCL). Minister Edghill’s reassurances ring hollow in the face of widespread discontent by residents. Edgehill said, “No resident will be suffering a loss.” This token gesture does little to alleviate the suffering of displaced families grappling with uncertainty and upheaval.
As our country grapples with the fallout of the government’s countless authoritarian actions, let us stand in solidarity with affected residents across Guyana — not just Peter’s Hall — who are facing eviction by the PPP government for various reasons and demand accountability from those in power. Despite the government’s attempts to silence dissent. We must hold our leaders accountable and fight for a future where the rights and dignity of all our citizens are respected.