Foreign Minister explains use of lobbyists as budget scrutiny examines ‘advocacy’ spending

The government’s use of lobbyist services came under scrutiny in the Committee of Supply on Tuesday as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hugh Todd explained the practice.

Opposition MP Amanza Walton-Desir questioned the ministry’s “advocacy” spending and pressed whether those funds include the retention of lobby firms and what framework guides the hiring of such services.

Todd explained that lobbying firms are not hired to conduct Guyana’s foreign policy but to help the state reach key decision-makers in a competitive global environment, particularly in large countries with layered political systems where access may be difficult through official channels alone.

He told the committee that these firms help Guyana “manoeuvre the corridors of power” to reach offices the country needs to engage, pointing to limited manpower compared with larger states. He also said the firms take direction from Guyana and are intended to enhance reach and visibility rather than replace diplomats or determine policy.

Walton-Desir, while acknowledging lobbying is not unusual internationally, raised concerns about whether Guyanese expertise, particularly within the diaspora, could be underutilised if lobbyists are relied on too heavily.

Todd responded that diaspora engagement does happen and can sometimes be on a voluntary basis, but maintained that lobbying firms typically have seasoned professionals, often including retired diplomats, and are registered and credentialed to access high-level political offices.

During the exchange, Todd stated that three lobbying firms have been hired. He named Continental Strategy and DR Consultancy, and gave monthly cost figures for at least two arrangements.

The scrutiny came as the committee examined the ministry’s estimates for 2026. The Budget Estimates list the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation with about $10.03B in total proposed expenditure and $247.638M in capital spending.

Todd also pointed to operational pressures that affect costs, including the management of Guyana’s network of missions and consulates and the rotation/posting cycle for foreign service officers, explaining that postings were deferred in the previous year and are expected to be effected during a more suitable school-break window to reduce disruption to families.