The Executive Board of the Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association (GSMA) has issued an apology to President David Granger for what it deemed to be a “distressing public display of bad manners”, when anti-government demonstrators heckled and momentarily interrupted the Head of State from delivering remarks, at a luncheon hosted yesterday at the Pegasus Hotel.
The GMSA, in its missive to the President, said that it prides itself as a responsible member of the Private Sector with a mandate to interact with the Government of the day, irrespective of party allegiance.
“We fully accept the concept of public protest within a democratic context, but cannot condone protestors using the confines of private property to voice their concerns in such a boisterous and unruly manner,” the statement read.
The association said that the Political Opposition was informed that they will get a chance to air their views at a next Luncheon, which is due shortly.
“…hence, we view their behaviour yesterday as an outright affront to our belief in fairness, impartiality, and openness to all opinions in our society. Excellency, we wish to thank you for remaining steadfast in your intention to speak to the Business Community on relevant Policies and Strategies of your Government, actual and proposed, and to assure you that your speech was well received by our audience.” The statement concluded.
The GSMA’s missive to the president also comes when the association is being accused of aligning with the opposition to stage the protest against the Head of State.
Earlier today, Peoples’ National Congress Reform (PNCR) Executive Member, Rear Admiral (retired) Gary Best, said that all evidence shows that there was collusion.
