Guyana: Teixeira Responds to Corruption Index Criticism in Parliament

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira addressed the concerns raised about Guyana’s ranking on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index during a recent session of the National Assembly. Teixeira argued that the index is based on perceptions and should not be considered definitive proof of actual corruption within the country.

The discussion was initiated by Opposition Chief Whip Tabitha Sarbo-Halley, who questioned why Guyana continues to rank poorly on the index despite various government efforts aimed at promoting transparency. In her response, Teixeira challenged the basis of the question, stating that the government could not identify the specific World Bank corruption indicator referenced by the Opposition MP.

Teixeira noted that while the World Bank conducts governance-related assessments, these assessments include disclaimers and are based on staff judgment rather than formal positions from the World Bank’s Executive Directors or member governments. She emphasized that the latest Corruption Perceptions Index, which is for 2024, does not measure actual levels of corruption but rather reflects subjective views influenced by various factors such as media coverage and socioeconomic conditions.

Despite her defense of the government’s stance, Teixeira’s response did not include specific local data demonstrating progress in reducing corruption risks or improving accountability. She did not engage in detail with the recommendations typically associated with concerns about corruption perception, such as enhancing transparency systems and improving public access to information.

Teixeira argued that Guyana should not be judged solely by international perception surveys, particularly as many countries in the Global South often receive lower rankings compared to those in the Global North. She referenced comments from Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley regarding the framing of corruption internationally.

Furthermore, Teixeira stated that Guyana’s anti-corruption efforts should be evaluated based on its laws, constitutional systems, audits, and treaty obligations, highlighting the importance of reporting under frameworks such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force.

While Teixeira maintained that the Corruption Perceptions Index is not indicative of actual corruption, the exchange in Parliament underscored the ongoing public concern regarding transparency, accountability, and the government’s readiness to address these issues with concrete data and reforms.

Source: hgptv.com