Dear Editor,
Regarding the Minister of Foreign Affairs’ expression of “deep concern” about revelations of an alleged plan to invade and occupy Guyana’s New River Triangle by persons in Suriname, she and the government need to be assured that the Alliance For Change will support any lawful action taken to secure, protect and defend Guyana’s territorial integrity. We have long been urging that we should not replace the principal role of the military even as it undergoes changes. While we welcome the transformative process taking place, we urge that the principal role of the GDF not be displaced or forgotten. Territorial aggression has been a part of our history and we will be condemned if we forget it.
In 2007, in an address to GDF officers I stated: “The military thinker Carl Von Clausewitz once posited that war is a continuation of politics by another means.
If taken to a logical conclusion it means that the business of the GDF should simply be preparing for war whether from internal or external threats. I believe however that a modern day military force such as the GDF must be much more than an army that wages war, or extends itself simply as the continuation of a political cause; but rather, is one that must be able to represent itself, its principles, ideals and above all else, the people in all spheres of activity and endeavour that they are engaged in. In this mode, it must, as of necessity, be able to take itself through cycles of change and transformation, which [will] ensure that it is contemporary with societal developments; not when they arise, but before they arise… Apart from the sound decision taken a few years ago to acquire the GDF Essequibo there appears to be no discernable plan or thought to acquire materiel for the road ahead. I hope that as capable and informed officers that you will not lose the initiative by waiting for another occurrence to arise and that you will be prepared even as you await the policy-makers to find their step.”
Some in Suriname obviously, harbour sinister views and intentions. Let us be wise and not transform our army into being a toothless poodle even as it is being prepared for its wider role to serve our society better.
Yours faithfully,
Raphael Trotman
