Inclusive governance, public trust are important – Min Persaud
Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr Vindhya Persaud said governments must remain accessible, accountable and connected to the people.
She was addressing parliamentarians at the 153rd Inter- Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly in Arusha, Tanzania.
The assembly, held from October 5 to 9, brought together parliamentarians under the theme “Enhancing good governance and empowering communities through inclusivity, trust and opportunities for all”.
“We believe that our government must remain accessible, responsible and connected to the people.”
Dr Persaud outlined Guyana’s approach to engaging citizens, including direct interactions with the president and cabinet in coastal, indigenous and riverine communities.
She said digital platforms also allow citizens to raise concerns and provide feedback, helping the government address everyday frustrations and strengthen accountability.
These engagements support wider participation by young people, women, persons with disabilities, businesses, civil society and faith-based organisations.
She highlighted the annual National Toshaos Council conference as a forum where indigenous leaders discuss their communities’ priorities with the president and cabinet.
Dr Persaud also pointed to the allocation of 15 per cent of revenue from Guyana’s carbon credit sales to indigenous communities, supporting development projects determined at the village level.
Turning to public services, she cited housing provision for 53,000 families, free university education, technical and vocational training, and scholarships among the government’s measures to widen opportunity.
She further highlighted expanded support for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, alongside investments in healthcare, digital connectivity and roads to improve access to services and markets.
Dr Persaud said parliament plays a central role in translating citizens’ concerns into legislation and holding government accountable.
“Guyana’s parliament is pivotal to our governance framework. Where diverse voices contribute to legislation representing our population’s perspective,” she said.
Against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions and climate uncertainty, the minister said people need to understand how decisions made in parliamentary chambers will affect their lives.
Thus, she called for stronger international cooperation to share effective approaches to inclusive governance, while safeguarding privacy and maintaining public trust.
