MNR responds to allegations on EITI implementation in Guyana

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) has addressed recent claims by Policy Forum Guyana (PFG) regarding the implementation of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) in Guyana. The Ministry emphasized that the allegations, if left unchallenged, risk creating a negative impression about the country’s adherence to international transparency standards.

The Ministry clarified that claims suggesting the Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG) ceased to exist in January 2025 are false. Communications dated October 1 and 18, 2024, confirm that MSG members’ terms were retroactively extended, and records of meetings and minutes substantiate the continuity of the MSG.

Regarding the governance of the Guyana EITI Secretariat, MNR noted that embedding national secretariats within government agencies is standard practice, with over 90% of EITI-implementing countries following this model. Only Nigeria and Liberia maintain fully autonomous legislated EITI secretariats.

The Ministry also defended the open recruitment process for the Civic Convenor role, highlighting that four parties applied, including PFG. MNR emphasized that the convenor’s role is limited to coordinating civil society members, without influence over the selection of civic representatives.

On the definition of civil society, MNR pointed out that past MSG civil society members often served as individual representatives, in accordance with EITI standards, and that rules should be applied consistently rather than selectively.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to EITI standards, including the CSO Protocol and Requirement 1.4, which ensures civil society selects its representatives freely.

MNR stated that it remains focused on oversight of the extractive sector while maintaining transparency and engagement with all stakeholders.