GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Feb 167, CMC – The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC)says it has taken note of “several negative remarks” made by the co-leader of the minority opposition, Working People’s Alliance (WPA), David Hinds, on his online show that was aired last Month.
“The Commission is currently scrutinizing and investigating the statements made, which are believed to have the potential to sow division and disrupt social harmony,” the ERC said in a statement.
It said it steadfast in its mandate to promote harmony and respect among all ethnic groups in Guyana.
“In accordance with its constitutional responsibilities, the Commission has initiated a review of the statements made during the broadcast and is diligently assessing their impact.
The ERC said that it wanted to assure the public that it is taking this matter seriously and that “once the investigation is concluded, the ERC will make public its findings and any actions deemed necessary to uphold the principles of fairness, unity, and respect.
“The ERC urges all Guyanese, particularly public figures and content creators, to exercise responsibility in their communication—especially on public platforms—to ensure that discussions remain constructive and do not contribute to racial discord,” it added.
Last week, President Irfaan Ali questioned the silence of the media over what he termed their silence on the “racist, derogatory, and disrespectful remarks” made by Hinds, who in his broadcast had launched an attack on Afro-Guyanese for aligning themselves with the ruling Indo-dominated People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).
Ali said the comments were designed to instill fear among the population.
Hinds after opening his show with the popular Trinidadian calypso song “Lick Bottom African” by Trinidadian calypsonian “Cro Cro”, declared that in Guyana, there are also many “Lick bottom Africans”, who he said would be “Lick Beetee Africans” in Guyanese creole language.
Hinds said there should have been more calypsonians like Cro-Cro in Guyana.
“Lick bottom Africans, sell-outs, all kinds of talk they giving us as to why they behaving like house slaves and slave catchers, we got to talk it as it is,” Hinds said.
CMC/gt/ir/2025