The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is urging Guyana government and US embassy officials to resume the discussion concerning the USAID Leadership and Democracy Program (LEAD) with the objective of identifying the mutually feasible, pragmatic common ground so that the project can be implemented effectively.

After meetings with representatives from both sides, the Chamber learned that all parties were ready to engage officially on the issue. However, the government has one precondition that must be satisfied before the dialogue can proceed and that is the US government should halt the current implementation of the project until the points of concern are resolved. The Chamber believes this is a reasonable request that the US Embassy should consider.

Additionally, the GCCI fully supports and endorses the objectives of the LEAD project. The Chamber believes that its implementation will strengthen political institutions and enhance citizen understanding of how individuals can engage in the larger civic and political discourse in their communities and throughout the country.

Similarly, the project aims to bolster the operations of the National Assembly by giving parliamentarians the essential tools for delivering effective representation and policy formulation that represents the most ideal, mutually productive interests of Guyana, as a whole. This is a most timely and welcomed project, considering the current parliamentary makeup and circumstances. In summary, the Chamber sees the LEAD project as instrumental in meeting the need to foster an environment where compromise and cooperation in the country’s interests comprise the cornerstone of good policy making.

Furthermore, the GCCI recognizes the importance of strong political and governance institutions in ensuring a stable political environment that leads to social and economic prosperity. Moreover, this position aligns with our stated objective as outlined in the GCCI’s recently published ‘Competitiveness Manifesto’ in supporting initiatives and projects that contribute to long-term economic and political stability.