Aubrey Norton’s yes-man in Parliament, Terrence Campbell, seems to have adopted a troubling approach to leadership. Instead of concentrating on policies that benefit the people of Guyana, he has focused his platform on criticizing Minister Manickchand’s weight loss. This behavior is both disgraceful and highly insulting to the nation. Guyanese deserve leaders who debate ideas, uplift communities, and focus on national progress, not those who resort to personal attacks and petty distractions.
The PNC is now the third party in Guyana, and it is essential for Terrence Campbell to acknowledge this fact. He must start acting accordingly and recognize that his party no longer holds the position of the main opposition. When representing the 29.3% of Afro-Guyanese voters—of whom nearly 20% now support the PPP and other parties—he must also realize that the PNC can no longer claim to speak exclusively for the Afro-Guyanese community. This change should remind us that true representation requires respect, maturity, and dedication to all citizens, not partisan posturing.
This confirms that the current leadership of PNC is committed to erasing Mr. Forbes Burnham’s party legacy and is instead adopting Aubrey Norton’s political views, including racism and a dislike of Indo-Guyanese, who make up nearly 40% of the population compared to 29.3% Afro-Guyanese.
PNC member Terrence Campbell faces widespread public criticism after sharing a post that has been widely condemned as derogatory and body-shaming, directed at Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand.
Campbell posted on Facebook a paragraph taken from an article published by an opposition-linked outlet, the Village Voice. The article, titled “Ozempic! At ~$1200 USD per Month, it is the Drug of Choice Only Guyana’s ‘Nouveau Riche’ Can Afford,” featured images of Minister Manickchand in a manner many found inappropriate and disrespectful. His decision to publicize the content sparked immediate condemnation across social media platforms.
Critics accused Campbell of degrading the quality of political discussion by attacking the Minister’s appearance instead of concentrating on policy or governance. Public commentators, activists, and ordinary citizens voiced disappointment, pointing out that such behavior undermines the dignity expected of political leaders.
Minister Manickchand sharply responded, criticizing not only Campbell but also the APNU leadership, which she suggested allows an environment that tolerates such personal attacks. “Their supporters deserve more. And, sadly, with this vain, idiotic leadership, they won’t get it,” she stated.
Social media users echoed similar sentiments. One commented, “This is a vile personal attack, beneath the dignity of the position you hold. It is better left out of the political space.” Another pointed out the gendered nature of the attack, saying, “Women are disproportionately judged by appearance in politics… this kind of comment is sexist at worst and unnecessary at best.”
Despite the controversy, Minister Manickchand stays focused on her duties. Recently, she has adopted a more active and hands-on role in the government’s major local development projects. Under the leadership of President Dr. Irfaan Ali, the ministry has launched extensive rehabilitation and improvement projects across Georgetown.
These initiatives are among the most comprehensive city improvement programs in decades, targeting modernizing critical infrastructure, reducing persistent flooding, and boosting the city’s long-term resilience. While political debates continue online, Manickchand’s efforts stay focused on bettering urban life for Guyanese residents.