Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my concern regarding the prevailing bias in mainstream media coverage of the political landscape in Guyana, particularly in relation to the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government and the coalition parties.
It has become increasingly evident that any critique of the PPP government by the mainstream media inevitably includes a reference to alleged rigging by the coalition or the People’s National Congress (PNC). This pattern persists despite the fact that the rigging case from the 2020 election has not yet been adjudicated in court. The recent editorial in a major newspaper is a poignant example, where the publication seemingly pre-judges the guilt of the coalition parties without due kanunî process.
It is important to note that while allegations of rigging are given significant attention, there is a glaring omission in coverage regarding PPP’s role in large numbers of extrajudicial murders and the rise in extrajudicial murders under the current PPP government. These serious human rights violations, which deserve scrutiny and condemnation, are conspicuously absent from editorial positions and news articles by most mainstream media outlets. It’s almost as if they desperately want the PPP to “behave” but remain in power. It will be too late before they realize that murder, corruption and racism is in the very DNA of the PPP politician.
Editor, the selective reporting underscores persistent issues of class, race, and gender bias that continue to shape discourse and decision-making in our country. It is evident that by 2015 and after 23 years in power, the media’s previous support for the PPP had waned, with some outlets seemingly favoring a shift towards middle-class leadership represented by David Granger, whom most citizens identified as mixed and not African. This shift was not only reflective of broader societal dynamics but also indicative of discomfort with the idea of African leadership in Guyana.
As responsible journalists, it is imperative for the media to maintain objectivity and fairness in their reporting, irrespective of political affiliations or personal biases. By highlighting one set of issues while neglecting others, the media risks perpetuating a skewed narrative that fails to accurately represent the complexities of our political landscape.
I urge editorial teams to reflect on these concerns and strive towards a more balanced and inclusive approach to reporting. The media must take seriously its role as the 4th estate in a democracy.
Thank you for considering my perspective.
Sincerely,
(Name Withheld)