In Guyana, a colossal construction boom in the non-governmental sector has sparked a frenzy of speculation. While the prevailing narrative attributes this surge to the anticipated oil boom, those with insight understand a different reality, behind the facade of legitimate investment lies a shadowy world of money laundering on a grand scale.
The government would have us believe that the construction of hotels, office buildings, and apartments is largely a direct result of the impending oil riches. However, the truth is far more sinister. Local speculators, emboldened by promises of soaring demand for real estate, are erecting structures on a foundation of hopes and dreams. Yet, the anticipated windfall envisioned by those involved in illicit activities remains elusive.
Additionally, despite regulations mandating local ownership of building infrastructure, foreign oil companies have circumvented these rules, acquiring land and constructing massive edifices to serve their own interests, leaving local speculators heavily in debt. Monitor the ‘for sale’ lists for office buildings within the next two years.
Cocaine busts occur with alarming frequency, underscoring the pervasive and ever-present influence of drug trafficking in Guyana’s economy. The absence of names accompanying these busts speaks volumes – if those involved were insignificant, their identities would undoubtedly be exposed.
Make no mistake – foreign oil companies like ExxonMobil are not benevolent benefactors poised to usher in an era of prosperity for Guyana. Their stinginess knows no bounds, with minimal investments even in corporate social responsibility initiatives and a penchant for token gestures designed to garner large positive publicity, it’s all ‘smoke and mirrors’.
Despite promises of economic stimulus, the reality is starkly different. Even their foreign oil workers are confined to restricted areas, their interaction with local communities and businesses severely limited and therefore Guyana is not benefiting from their foreign dollars.
The notion of widespread consumer spending fueled by oil dollars is nothing but a mirage since cost of living has skyrocketed leaving locals with limited disposable income. Instead, the burden of sustaining the economy continues to fall on the shoulders of the diaspora members, who send remittances to their families at astounding rate of $500M USD annually and who contribute significantly to tourism revenues during visits.
The promise of a burgeoning middle class remains a dream unfulfilled, as both government and private sector entities prioritize low wages to attract foreign investment so there is no massive wage increase on the horizon for Guyanese locals.
Today, Guyana finds itself ensnared in a web of corruption, money laundering, and unmitigated investor risk. For those seeking to squander their wealth, Guyana beckons as a cautionary tale of deceit and disillusionment. It’s time to see through the veneer of prosperity and confront the ugly reality – it’s not oil wealth, it’s cocaine wealth that fuels the economy’s engine of deception.