The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) joins in expressing condemnation of what could only be described as a lewd, vile, and clearly misogynic song directed towards Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand. Of greater discomfort is the publicizing of the derogatory song by a sitting Member of Parliament (MP). We believe that the MP, as a national leader, ought to know and certainly do better. The actions by the MP, in our view, is an embarrassment to the wider Opposition and is an insult to all Guyanese.
We see the attack on the Minister as an attack on all women and the gains they have secured through their struggles. The Minister, during her public life, has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights and thus the attempt to denigrate her character is most unbecoming. The GAWU upholds the advancement of women’s rights and thus we were most perturbed by the actions being touted by some as entertainment. It goes against any sense of morality, decency and integrity, characteristics touted by the now Opposition during the 2020 elections campaign.
The GAWU recognizes in the political sphere disagreements are bound to arise. We, at the same time, contend such disagreements should relate to issues and not personalities. It is on this score that we express our dismay that the Opposition Member disagreement with the Minister has descended into a completely uncalled for personal attack. As a leader, the MP should be setting an example for all Guyanese, especially our youth. The attempt to score petty political points through crude antics and gimmicks does not bring any good for our nation and its people. Those who are responsible for the composition, recital and distribution of the derogatory song should collectively hang their heads in shame. Such actions are reprehensible by any yardstick and those responsible should offer an unequivocal apology to the Minister and all Guyanese.
