U.S. Ambassador digs a hole for herself

Oct 01, 2026 Features / Columnists, The GHK Lall Column

(Kaieteur News) – Ye Gods! The Justice Gino Persaud “visa review” public kangaroo trial is leading to some unlikely places. In his trial by fire, even the mighty U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Excellency Nicole D. Theriot, ended up with her own hair on fire. “We are not aware.” What to make of that bombshell straight out of Hollywood? Has nothing to do with measurements and appeal. Has everything to do with the sound and optics, the implications, of “we are not aware.”

For the record, I think that Excellency Theriot has been given a dirty posting (PPP Govt); a dirty set of realities (faux democracy, sleazy environment, untrustworthy leadership, and ugly official banditry) in which to operate. She has done better in her position, than many would have, given the same undesirable role. She has represented American interests well. The messages of the American Government faithfully and professionally broadcast. An ambassador on the subdued side; but one not to be tampered with, so sure she is of the weight she carries and the heat she packs. Though not overly effusive, it is the best that I can muster for Ambassador Theriot. This I believe does her work ethic justice, commends her navigation in the treacherous mud reefs of Guyana’s politics.