Former journalist Wanita Huburn recently took to Facebook to express her anguish over what she describes as ongoing discrimination and bias directed at her by the PPP government. In a compelling post, Huburn recounted a series of incidents where she allegedly faced exclusion and mistreatment, raising concerns about the state of equality and fairness in Guyana.
Among the grievances listed by Huburn was her struggles as a presenter for the program “The Buzz” on NCN (National Communications Network), where she alleges her show was taken off the air twice without justification. Despite appealing to various persons and authorities, including Azzruddin Mohamed and the Prime Minister who is responsible for NCN, Huburn claims she faced obstacles in reinstating her program and was ultimately barred from using NCN studios or presenting programs on State radio and TV.
Additional she was uninvited from the First Lady’s Charity Event in 2021, despite the fact that the event is funded by taxpayers’ money through budgetary allocations. Huburn claimed that such exclusions are indicative of a wider pattern of discrimination alleged practiced by the Office of the First Lady.
Huburn was recently subjected to a vicious, sexually explicit attack by a propaganda unit ‘Live in Guyana’ which is alleged managed by PPP government minister Kwame McKoy.
Huburn’s revelations reflect significant personal courage and shed light on the challenges faced by individuals who dare to speak against perceived injustices in Guyana. Her experiences highlight the need for greater accountability and transparency in the media landscape, as well as a commitment to upholding the principles of equality and freedom of expression.
Huburn’s post was in response to what she indicated was a recent statement made by the President of Guyana, Irfaan Ali who rebuked claims of racial discrimination stating “….Where is the damn discrimination? Stop this nonsense!” The president of Guyana continues to reject claims of discrimination although Village Voice News has seen letters of complaint of discrimination, addressed to the president, by well regarded members of Guyanese society.
Huburn’s courageous account of her experience serves as a reminder that the country cannot progress if its most talented individuals continue to suffer from discrimination based on race, gender, or political affiliation. Calls for a response from NCN were met with silence at the time of reporting, leaving unanswered questions about the organization’s role in Huburn’s alleged mistreatment.
As Guyana strives to build a more inclusive and equitable society, it is important that incidents of discrimination are addressed promptly and decisively. Huburn’s story serves as a loud call for justice and equality, reminding us that the true essence of “One Guyana” lies in embracing diversity and respecting the rights of all its citizens. Wanita Huburn, like all Guyanese, should be allowed to serve her country in any capacity she chooses.