Dear Editor,
I do have my thoughts and reservation on the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation’s activities in the Linden Community. I have given them credit in the past principally in the realm of organizing where I thought credit was due, and my opinion on their ability as capable meticulous organizers has not changed. However I disagree with the manner in which Kashif Mohammed, Director of the Organisation, responded to Norman Browne’s letter captioned “There should be some form of accountability to show the community at Linden benefits” (07.01.09).
To say that “We respond in order to set the records straight rather than out of any real mindfulness of Mr Browne’s trivia”, is disrespectful and borders on arrogance. Mr Mohammed has allowed his emotions to get the better of him. I cannot stand in favour of castigating and being dismissive towards any person who in good faith raised questions in search for answers or clarification on issues, financial activities etc., that any organisation has conducted in the community. It certainly does not help and only fuels antagonism that can be avoided.
Accusations and allegations against an organisation are better challenged and nullified with statistics and substantive evidence which I think Mr Mohammed has no fears about, as he proudly pointed out that leading business houses “have continued to support the tournament without ever having had reason to question the veracity of the event or the integrity of the organizers.”
Why the reference to Norman Browne as “absentee critics like yourself?” Browne is a young Lindener who has always shown an interest and been involved in various community activities.
He has been living in England for approximately four to five years, and has returned home about four times for different reasons. His keen interest in what goes on in the community has not dwindled, even though he lives in another land. The concerns he raised are fair and understandable and should not have caused anyone to become so riled up. Agreed, organizing the Linden Town Week is no piece of cake, it encompasses a cook-up of activities which the Kashif/Shanghai organization has proven they are up to. But even with the best of intentions, one has got to be watchful and not take things for granted.
The dreams, aspirations and hopes of the community are also the concern of many; I don’t think that the Kashif/Shanghai organization alone has the wherewithal to continue this 9 year old annual event. Though their entry along with the Linden Fund USA has been successful, according to Mr Mohammed this is due mainly to their tightly guarded budget, their recipe and secret of success, which must remain in the confines of the organization, hence their refusal to present one as requested by IMC Chairman Mr Orin Gordon. But still I can empathize with Mr Gordon’s position, his is not an easy task, he is accountable to the entire community.
May I say a main ingredient in the organizing of the Linden Town Week is the spirit of civility. Having a keen interest and concern in the community activities is good, it helps to keep things in line and promote positive growth. I think that other notable members of the community should feel free and be impartial in taking a principled position, and not sit on the fence because of personal hang ups. I fully agree that the first and foremost objective of the Linden Town Week must be towards the advancement and upliftment of the Linden community, any other diversion must be seriously challenged.
I also hope that there is still time enough for amicable relations and a favourable agreement to be reached between all stakeholders for a rewarding Linden Town Week.
Yours faithfully,
Frank Fyffe