Dear Editor,
Judging from the plethora of letters that flooded the various newspapers, all in high praise of the former first woman president of this land, it is difficult not to get a picture of an angelic creation and the personification of a good Samaritan − humanity and humility, indeed rare qualities in politicians. Yet I have no evidence to doubt the encomiums heaped on her since I never had the experience of being around her as others have.
In paying attention to the many tributes, I was deeply moved by Minister Rohee reading the eulogy; I wouldn’t be truthful if I said I wasn’t touched. Minister Rohee was overwhelmed by his emotions as he spoke from deep down within about who Janet Jagan was, her long struggle in a foreign land which became her home, and how she nurtured him like a son.
Since we are of a higher order and an organ not a stone beats in our chests, how could we not be moved by the loss of one of our kind? It was the feeling of one human being towards another, and Mr Rohee’s emotions spilled over and created similar reactions.
For me it brought back memories of Dr Ptolemy Reid bursting into tears as he spoke of the majesty of Forbes Burnham at his funeral, and that is why I was not amused by those who took to deriding Minister Rohee’s hurt and tears; I understood that without emotions we are just living dead. In a letter to KN a few years ago, I had written, “Mrs Jagan struggled and battled with many issues on behalf of Guyanese women and Guyana for decades. It was on this land that she was imprisoned for her political activities when many full blooded Guyanese were apolitical and just not bold enough to become involved. No one took objection then, not even the sagacious Forbes Burnham.” Looking back, I’m glad that I wrote that while she was still alive, and I do believe that she was unfairly treated and a victim of misconception and misrepresentation.
Sixty-five years as a political activist is no mean deed! Being among the first to champion so many workers’ causes and women’s issues, fighting for bauxite workers’ rights way back in Linden (McKenzie) since 1947 − these are all commendable acts.
It was said that she made many Guyanese women and the community what they are today, and she had compassion for the needy, etc.
This is why the unsavoury and mean comments I heard coming from some lips − women at that, nay even youths − made me cringe. When we feed on these things what on earth are we expecting in return? And this brings me to the point where it appears that on both sides we are refusing to be magnanimous by not lending ourselves genuinely to each other.
For even on the funeral day I heard stories about the behaviour of some PPP supporters, even senior activists towards some who attended the funeral, even as they, these activists showered her with adulation − the selfless, all-encompassing and charming lady of no feeble character.
On hearing all this, one is forced to ask how come those who were nurtured and groomed by this fine woman, those who were fortunate to constantly experience her warmth and kindness, were not in like manner exhibiting similar values and virtues? Come on!
We are talking about 65 years of generosity and magnanimity. If only all this multiplicity of virtues was emulated by the many who spoke of their relationship and time spent with her, we would have definitely by now had a better Guyana. But here I am reminded by Gandhi who in rebuking some Christians said, “You people are so much unlike your leader.”
And lastly an observation: I was looking out to hear Mayor Hamilton Green say his piece at the Parliament Building ceremony as one who has in recent years been constantly talking about a spiritual revival and healing; one of the few remaining political soldiers from the Jagan/Burnham era, who had congratulated Mrs Jagan on her ascendancy to the presidency.
It was my feeling that he would have made a rather profound presentation.
Given that Mrs Jagan fitted in to all that was said of her, then indeed she would have been pleased.
Yours faithfully,
Frank Fyffe
