“So nonsensical” – Public Service Minister rejects misinformation on e-ID cards

…urges citizens to apply, says card designed to make services simpler

Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Ministry, Zulfikar Ally, has rejected misinformation being peddled about the electronic identification card initiative, emphasising that the digital document is intended to improve citizens’ quality of life and access to public services. Speaking during the commissioning of the Government Service Centre in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Ally dismissed claims that the initiative is intended to give the Government access to citizens’ private information to control them, calling the allegations “nonsensical.”

“Sometimes I really don’t know how to answer that because it is so nonsensical…when you come to get the e-ID card, we ask you for some very basic documents, we ask you for your birth certificate, an original copy…and do you know who gives you your birth certificate? The Government through the GRO (General Register Office). We ask you for a proof of ID, you can either come with your passport or your GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission) ID. You know who give you your passport or your GECOM ID? The Government. The next thing we ask you for is a proof of address, either a letter or you can bring your TIN certificate that has your address on it and who gives you that? The Government. So, at what point in time is the Government trying to get your information?” the Minister posited.