Probe ongoing at GMC – Agri. Ministry

The Ministry of Agriculture on Wednesday confirmed that it is currently addressing an ongoing investigation into the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) but also rejected unsubstantiated claims made by Mark Benschop, a prominent APNU activist.

Benschop’s recent Facebook post has alleged involvement of the Ministry’s Head Office, including the Minister of Agriculture and other staff members, in the purchase and sale of chicken and eggs—a responsibility that actually falls under GMC’s jurisdiction.

In response to these claims, the Ministry has firmly denied any involvement in these activities.

The GMC, led by General Manager Ms. Teshawna Lall, is the sole authority for handling such matters. The Ministry emphasizes that it does not engage in these transactions and that the post’s implications are misleading.

This controversy comes amid an audit and investigation initiated by the Minister of Agriculture into certain irregularities and discrepancies within GMC. The Ministry underscores that this investigation is part of a transparent process aimed at ensuring accountability and addressing any administrative issues.

The Ministry has expressed concern that the timing of Benschop’s post appears to be an attempt to distract from the ongoing investigation. It has urged the public to disregard these unfounded allegations and to await the official findings of the investigation, which are being conducted with integrity and transparency.

The Ministry of Agriculture reaffirms its commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in its operations and continues to work towards the betterment of Guyana’s agricultural sector and its citizens.