Kampta Karran ed. (2004) Racial Conflict Resolution and Power Sharing in Guyana: Selected Readings, Guyana, Offerings Publication, pgs. 148, PB.
A Review by C. Naipaul
Guyana Chronicle
February 8, 2004
RACIAL conflicts and racial cohesion exist side by side in Guyana. In this 19th Issue of the Offerings Journal, an attempt is made to examine aspects of the racial conflicts from both a historical and contemporary perspective. Further, recommendations are offered on how these conflicts could be resolved.
This locally produced volume began with a piece entitled Racial Conflicts in Guiana: 1831 – 1905. In this piece, the editor took us on a tour of the genesis of this phenomenon. Making use of the Horowitz’s Group Comparison Theory, Karran argued that the causes of racial conflict could be traced to competition of scarce resources, fear of domination and extinction and also to entitlement claims. This framework is as relevant to the period which was examined as it is to an understanding to what is happening today. The same insecurities and fears that were experienced in the 19th Century seem to be with us at the beginning of the 21st Century.
Eusi Kwayana attempted a reflection of race relations in Guyana. He began by treating the races as Diasporas. By so doing he is contemplating an innovative way to make sense of the contemporary situation. He tells us that his article “draws no conclusion, but has attempted to present a view of the Guyanese society and the road, or rather some of the pathways, its people have traveled.” Among the things Kwayana touched upon are dialogue and government of national unity. These were discussed as possible solutions to Guyana’s race relations challenge.
Tara Singh and Dhanpaul Narine outlined a power-sharing formula which they feel could assist in bridging the racial divide. Perhaps it is important at this stage to suggest that there are more than adequate provisions for inclusive governance in Guyana today. Participation in the parliamentary committees and on boards allows the political opposition the opportunity to represent the interests of their constituencies. Working together in these areas will help in the building of trust which is an important ingredient in conflict resolution.
Stressing the need to promote functional cooperation among the various races at the grass roots level Judaman Seecoomar recommends joint cooperative efforts to solve problems at the community level. The importance of bottom-up action to help the political directorate to satisfy community needs cannot be underestimated.
David Hinds’ understanding of the consequences of post 1992 elections is open to contestations. He uses the concept of transition to examine race and democracy. The reader wants know whither transition. That the PPP won at the polls after 28 years of fraudulent elections is not enough. It is expected to do all things for all people immediately. Perhaps some of the consequences addressed could have been effected by an irresponsible opposition.
Two book reviews, Karran’s Race and Ethnicity and Seecoomar’s Contributions Towards the Resolution of Conflict in Guyana bring the collection to a close.
In conclusion, this book is a relevant addition to our race relations and conflict resolution literature. While it is less than representative of the views of the society, it is timely and welcome.