Vincent P. Henry, leader of the Guyana Action Party (GAP) and a prominent Indigenous rights advocate, has sharply criticized the ongoing National Toshaos Council Conference (NTCC), accusing the forum of becoming a platform for political campaigning rather than a serious space for addressing the pressing challenges facing Guyana’s Indigenous communities.
“This year’s NTCC is clearly being used by the People’s Progressive Party to campaign—at all levels,” Henry said during an interview.
“You not only have the main speakers pushing political lines, but activists are embedded in the space, actively campaigning on behalf of the ruling party.”
Henry’s criticism comes amid growing concerns that the annual conference—traditionally meant to foster dialogue between Indigenous leaders and the state—is being politicized and dominated by government messaging.
He further condemned the exclusion of the political opposition, including elected Indigenous opposition Members of Parliament (MPs), from the forum.
“Why weren’t opposition MPs invited? This isn’t just a break in protocol—it’s an affront to democracy,” Henry asserted.
Unverified reports also suggest that representatives of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) and members of the press were prohibited or restricted from attending sessions of the NTCC, raising further concerns about transparency and inclusivity.
Henry pointed out that several tushaos have voiced their dissatisfaction with the conference format, alleging that the state maintained a domineering tone, with little room for open debate on critical issues such as land titling and demarcation—issues that have long remained unresolved.
“Many Indigenous leaders feel ignored. We’re still waiting on clarity and action on land demarcation, housing, and community empowerment,” Henry emphasized.
The NTCC is meant to be the highest consultative forum for Guyana’s Indigenous peoples, yet recent developments have cast doubt on whether it is fulfilling that role impartially.
As the country continues to navigate the geopolitical tensions surrounding the Essequibo region and internal calls for justice and equity, Henry’s remarks reignite questions about the independence and effectiveness of Indigenous representation in national policymaking.
