By Samuel Sukhnandan and Kimberly Giddings
The Amerindian People’s Association (APA) is under scrutiny due to its political affiliations and recent actions. Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), has pointed out the APA’s historical and recent connections with the opposition APNU/AFC.
This includes Laura George’s recent alignment with the AFC, which Dr. Jagdeo argues reinforces the APA’s political ties.
Dr. Jagdeo noted that the APA’s former leader, Jean La Rose, was previously involved with the opposition coalition as their Deputy Representative in the 2015 elections.
He emphasized that such political affiliations are significant when evaluating the APA’s credibility and actions.
The APA also faced criticism for its 2023 attempt to block Guyana’s ART Trees crediting, which could have hindered carbon credit earnings for Native American villages.
Dr. Jagdeo contended that these actions contradict the APA’s stated commitment to Amerindian advocacy.
Additionally, Dr. Jagdeo highlighted the APA’s lack of progress in developing a comprehensive Amerindian development strategy, despite the organization being active for nearly 15 years.