“Yanking me from leadership is self-destruction” – Figueira on removal from regional chairmanship
Senior member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Jermaine Figueira, has described his removal from the chairmanship of Region 10 by party leader Aubrey Norton as an “act of implosive self-destruction born out of benign insularity.”
Figueira, who was the only person stripped of a shadow portfolio in the National Assembly earlier this year by Norton, was recently removed as the party’s chairman in Region 10 and replaced with an interim committee.
“Yanking me from regional leadership while I’m engaged consistently in the most impactful grassroots initiative that keeps our constituents engaged and hopeful with meaningful reassurances that ‘we’ve got your back, and we are here helping you to hold strain while we are in opposition,’ is simply an act of implosive self-destruction born out of benign insularity,” Figueira stated.
Earlier this week, a senior member dispatched a letter to the media expressing dissatisfaction with the decision, noting that it highlights a growing rift that could have lasting implications for the party and Figueira’s political career.
The senior member described Figueira’s leadership approach as “focusing on a different kind of politics and representation for people beyond talk,” which has drawn sharp criticism from some of his party members, including Norton.
When asked about his political future within the party, Figueira, the current chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), highlighted his desire to focus on broader national interests rather than just party loyalty.
“I will always have a future in politics because I’m young, relatable, and a career educator. My interest in politics is deep-seated and long-term.”
However, he left the door open regarding his future with the PNCR, citing a “two-fold” decision based on Norton’s actions and his own personal assessment of relevance within the party.
Regarding whether his removal from the post would erode confidence in the party, Figueira acknowledged that Norton, as leader, has the authority to make such changes.
However, he noted that the membership and supporters would ultimately decide if these changes were made in good faith or driven by “narrow-minded, petty, and vindictive schemes” targeting key figures with differing perspectives.
He explained that while some might view Norton’s actions as personal attacks, he sees them as opportunities for personal enlightenment.
“I still have so much more to offer in service to the people of our country,” Figueira said, expressing confidence that his political and social work would continue to find a place, either within or outside the PNCR.
He added, “Irrational moves against any party stalwart, especially young innovators like myself, are myopic. If my grassroots contributions don’t align with the leader’s vision, that’s his prerogative. However, I will continue to serve the people first and foremost.”
On the issue of confidence in the current party leadership, Figueira was measured in his response, stating that it would not be “politically prudent nor ethical” to offer a definitive judgment while still holding national roles within the party.
However, he hinted that younger members like himself could not be easily silenced, particularly in the age of social media. He also reaffirmed his commitment to principles such as unity, non-partisan development, and country above party, values he feels should guide Guyana’s political landscape.
Figueira’s removal follows internal turbulence within the PNCR. The resignation of General Secretary Dawn Hastings-Williams, as well as the withdrawal of Amanza Walton-Desir and Roysdale Forde from the race for leadership, had raised concerns about the party’s direction. Calls to the Opposition Leader were futile.
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