Guyanese President Dr. Irfaan Ali recently engaged in a spirited exchange with BBC reporter Stephen Shakur during an interview concerning Guyana’s burgeoning oil reserves and climate change mitigation efforts. The discussion, which unfolded on a cordial note, intensified when Shakur questioned the president’s stance on carbon emissions from oil and gas extraction along Guyana’s coast. In a viral video capturing the heated exchange, President Ali staunchly defended his government’s management of the sector and asserted his authority on climate change issues, stating, “I would lecture you on climate change.”
“Let me stop you right there…”
Caribbean nation Guyana is booming after discovering oil. BBC’s Stephen Sackur puts it to President @presidentaligy; lobbyists say oil is bad for the climate.
Dude wasn’t having it. Mans was ready! pic.twitter.com/awy8OPIW2q
— Ranga.🇿🇼 (@RangaMberi) March 29, 2024
The full interview, including the contentious segment, was uploaded to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s YouTube Channel, the current ruling party in Guyana. Accompanying the video, the caption provided insight into the interview’s focus on Guyana’s offshore oil and gas reserves and their transformative impact on the economy.
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President Ali commenced the interview by reflecting on Guyana’s progress from its tumultuous past. However, tensions arose approximately 15 minutes into the conversation as Shakur raised concerns regarding the projected carbon emissions from Guyana’s oil and gas extraction activities.
President Ali swiftly interjected, highlighting Guyana’s vast forest reserves, which store an estimated 19.5 gigatonnes of carbon, equivalent to the combined landmass of England and Scotland. He emphasized the government’s commitment to preserving these forests. The exchange escalated when Shakur challenged whether this warranted the release of additional carbon emissions. President Ali rebuffed, asserting Guyana’s right to lecture on climate change due to its conservation efforts.
The interview sparked a significant response from viewers, with many expressing support for President Ali’s assertive stance. A YouTube user commended the president for defending his country and the Caribbean, cautioning the BBC against perceived interference. Others lauded President Ali’s leadership and pledged unwavering support for his endeavors.
Amidst ongoing debates surrounding Guyana’s economic development and environmental sustainability, President Ali’s assertive defense of his nation’s interests underscores the complex intersection of global energy demands and climate change imperatives.
