Dear Editor,
In Stabroek Sport of January 29, 2010, under the caption ‘Harper elected president of GCA’ there was a gross inaccuracy in relation to the Georgetown Cricket Association elections held on Wednesday, January 27, 2010. Please note that I was not defeated nor was Mr Harper unanimously elected; rather I declined the nomination for re-election citing respect, admiration and brotherhood for Mr Roger Harper.
My position on Mr Harper has always been simple and consistent. He is a household name in Guyana, the West Indies and further afield. He has served cricket with distinction on and off the field and is usually known to be a man that is principled, forthright and transparent. Up until the elections myself and Roger had an excellent working relationship. He was someone I courted for advice on many occasions, and as recently as three weeks ago we collaborated on the GCA workshop that aimed to impart leadership skills to young cricketers.
On the evening of the elections the news of Mr Harper running for office without any notification came as a great shock and surprise. His action which seems agenda driven has caused my perception of him and that of others to change. Further, this disturbing development can cause severe damage to the Georgetown Cricket Association fraternity which will take some time to heal.
Mr Harper’s ill advised action is irresponsible and can unintentionally fracture and divide cricket in Georgetown which was now finding its own with the planned programmes and initiatives with NGOs, international organizations, clubs and associations. From all reports as far as Crabwood Creek to Charity, cricket was going some place in Georgetown and was being run competently by members of the GCA.
As someone who touts himself as a professional and is seen as principled, I expected him to make his intentions known about running for office in keeping with proper protocol, instead of this clandestine accession to the presidency. Mr Harper more than any other person understands the healing that cricket currently needs, not only in Guyana but in the West Indies. Unfortunately Mr Harper has not learnt from the past mistakes of others.
If cricket is going to be the winner in my and your lifetime these unpleasant situations have to end.
During and after my presidency I have stuck to principles to guide my actions. Therefore for those who know me, the decision not to seek re-election would come as no surprise.
Yours faithfully,
Alfred Mentore
Editor’s note
Our report on the election for the president of the GCA was based on information provided by the PRO. We regret the error.
