The tragedy in Haiti reminds us all just how vulnerable we are from nature’s terrible fury whether an earthquake, a hurricane or other natural disasters; it reminds us here in Guyana of how fortunate we are to be living in a land which is basically free of serious natural disasters. The response of many countries, led by the USA, is also instructive to the world, because it shows that humanity, goodwill and sacrifice towers above the most deadly disaster and can overcome any obstacle nature can devise. The Haitians themselves are showing the world their resolution in digging out their neighbours and friends with their bare hands and raw courage. We all should take a minute of our time to pray for all the dead and injured in Haiti and each of us, no matter how badly off we are, should contribute, even if a hundred dollars to the regeneration of that country.
I see some politicians have already called for relief funds to be channelled into their respective party relief organ and I wonder why a united relief agency with all interested parties working together cannot do a better job; the government, opposition and all civic organizations should work together to help our brethren in Haiti at this time of extreme peril in their lives and they should do so in a fairly rapid manner along with sending Guyanese personnel immediately to assist in any way they can. Having different relief funding will cause confusion and delays; the Haitian people need donations of money more than anything else and they need it now.
The $200 million this government has pledged for Haiti is a good start for Guyana’s contribution to the ongoing tragedy in Haiti but we must all dig into our pockets to help alleviate the suffering of our Caribbean neighbour; imagine no water, no electricity, no proper medical help, no homes to go to, no proper security… no one can even begin to imagine the suffering of the Haitian people and the television can’t give you the smells, sounds and images of the people on the ground. As Guyanese, our hearts must go out to the people of Haiti and let us cast aside differences and act to help those in terrible distress. A united effort by all Guyanese to help Haiti in this hour of need is critical and we must stretch ourselves to the limit in order to contribute to this world-wide relief effort. In years to come, the Haitian people will look back and see that Guyanese came together to give the maximum help in their time of need; they will always be grateful.
Yours faithfully,
Cheddi (Joey) Jagan (Jr)
