Dear Editor,
In her capacity as former First Lady, Ms Varshnie Singh made a credible impact and provided tangible benefits to many children and adults, irrespective of race, who could not normally afford life-threatening medical treatment. The entire Guyanese people owe her deep gratitude.
With the position as First Lady Ms Singh was entitled to many privileges, which she exploited for the good of many struggling Guyanese and not for her personal gain.
In her present capacity as a Guyanese citizen, it is unfortunate to state that she should be entitled to no more privileges than any ordinary citizen.
Ms Singh’s recent complaints that a vehicle is no longer available for her use forcing her to travel on minibuses and taxis for her charity-related work are invalid since she is no longer acting in the capacity of the First Lady. Like any other Guyanese doing charity work, Ms Singh needs to find sponsors for her charity activities.
The President reiterated that government will absorb medical and travel costs for kids and adults going abroad to seek medical assistance as deemed appropriate by the Ministry of Health.
If Ms Singh wants to continue her charitable work, she needs to recognize the fact that it is unreasonable to expect personal help from the government.
Perhaps, it is time that Ms Singh turns over her charitable work to another individual who has better access to the government. Ms Singh will agree that it is unethical for government resources to be used for non-governmental purposes.
Yours faithfully,
Anand Persaud
