Derrick John, Toshao of Moraikobai Village, has been re-elected as Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), following the election of a new 20-member executive committee on the opening day of the NTC Conference. The committee, which represents Indigenous leaders from across Guyana, also saw the re-election of Sonia Latchman, Toshao of Bethany, as Vice Chairperson, while Shane Cornelius, Toshao of Karrau, retained the position of Secretary. Toshao Alvoro Simon was newly elected as Treasurer.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, in addressing the newly elected executive, urging them to embrace collective decision-making and fair leadership to effectively drive the development of their respective villages. She emphasised that every member of the NTC, whether on the executive committee or not, bears a significant responsibility to their communities. By law, they must actively engage with their people to initiate and implement development programmes.
“Even though you may not be a member of the executive, all democratically elected Toshaos have similar responsibilities that transcend through the entire group,” Minister Sukhai remarked. “We must carry forward the mandate that has been placed on us with respect to our role on behalf of our people.”
The Minister further stressed the importance of collective decision-making within the NTC, encouraging the executive to work together harmoniously. “You are being elected by the membership of the NTC to provide a higher level of leadership among yourselves. I ask that you work together well, seek to reach consensus decisions, and act in the best interest of the membership.”
Minister Sukhai also highlighted the necessity of adhering to legal frameworks when developing initiatives and fostering a spirit of unity, positivity, and proactivity in their implementation. She called on those who are not part of the executive to support and encourage the governing team in executing the NTC’s planned programmes, while also holding them accountable.
In her concluding remarks, the Minister expressed confidence in the council’s ability to fulfil its mandate and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued collaboration. She urged the council to remain vigilant against criticisms that could impede their progress.
The National Toshaos Council, established under the Amerindian Act of 2006, serves as the principal body responsible for promoting and protecting the rights of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples. It is mandated to represent the country’s first peoples, plan and develop policies, programmes, and projects aimed at sustainable development, and advocate for the rights and well-being of Indigenous communities.
