Social media commentators have unleashed a wave of scathing criticism against Minister Deodat Indar’s recent statement blaming the previous administration for Guyana’s persistent electricity woes. Citizens, frustrated by daily blackouts, have taken to platforms to denounce what they perceive as a deflection of responsibility and a failure of leadership.
Many online voices are questioning the government’s handling of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) system, pointing to an apparent inability to address immediate challenges. One young professional expressed frustration, saying; “Could we not just take responsibility for the current dismal and unsatisfactory performance of GPL? It’s managed by the current government, so let’s own it and set out clear short-term or temporary fixes to ensure that people in this country aren’t left in blackout every single day.”
Another remarked; “Yes, I understand the GTE project is on the horizon, but what’s the plan in the short term? Are we seriously supposed to settle for daily blackouts because a previous administration ‘didn’t do enough’? Y’all had four years! What are y’all doing right now to solve this? And please—don’t tell me powerships!”
These comments reflect a growing sentiment that the current administration is more invested in blame-shifting than problem-solving. Critics have pointed out that the electricity situation was markedly better under the stewardship of former Minister of Public Works David Patterson. Despite Minister Indar’s claims of mismanagement during Patterson’s tenure, residents recall fewer blackouts and a more stable power supply. One commentator observed; “If I remember correctly, during the previous administration we hardly experienced power outages where I lived. I don’t understand why, after four years, it’s still a blame game. It’s like child’s play.”
Such comparisons further fuel public dissatisfaction, with many questioning why the current administration has failed to improve the situation despite having significantly more resources at its disposal. Critics argue that the government’s continued reliance on blaming the past administration reeks of cowardice and a lack of accountability. As one social media user bluntly put it; “Real governance and real leadership mean taking responsibility and figuring it out NOW.”
Others have emphasized the importance of focusing on solutions rather than revisiting past issues. A commenter urged; “Let’s move past assigning blame and focus on addressing the challenges left by the previous government. Now is an important time to utilize the substantial resources available to create positive change and make a real difference.”
The criticisms extend beyond Minister Indar’s statement, with many alleging that the government appears confused and ill-equipped to resolve the power crisis. Commentators point to contradictory messaging and a lack of clear short-term plans as evidence of a government struggling to cope with the demands of Guyana’s growing economy. The rising chorus of dissatisfaction underscores a fundamental demand from the public: leadership that prioritizes action over rhetoric. While the Gas-to-Energy (GTE) project holds promise for the future, citizens are demanding immediate solutions to alleviate the daily hardships caused by blackouts.
Minister Indar’s attempts to deflect blame have done little to assuage public frustration. As one commentator aptly summarized; “What we need is action, not excuses. The people of Guyana deserve better than this endless cycle of blackouts and finger-pointing.”