Dear Editor,
As one who witnessed the political and social ups and downs of politics in Guyana since the early 50s. I share with young and old some disgust and disdain of the rhetoric on this question of Local Government Elections.

First, let it be known, to repeat what I said many times before, Local government Elections are long overdue, and if we are to make any sense of this talk of a return to democracy, a modern up-to-date Local Government system is a vital requirement to allow local leaders of Municipalities and NDC’s some flexibility and authority to manage the affairs of their respective communities.

It is a sad and sorry state that after all these years; we have a government using its massive propaganda machine wishing to go into elections with primitive, if not punitive laws and regulations, mostly, inappropriate and unacceptable in a modern democratic society.

Secondly, Dr. Steve Surujbally should be complimented for using all means to have the Elections Commission ready for the local government polls.

But for him to talk about `absurdities which emanate from political leaders’ is itself the highest form of an absurdity and hubris.

As a citizen, my good friend Dr. Surujbally ought to know that he ought not to divorce himself from the reality of an administration that seems hell bent on the road to hegemony and the control of every facet and aspect of national life.

It is crystal clear that the Administration has no interest in working with, or even having around, (as is the case of Georgetown), leaders who are prepared to stand up with strength to their bullyism, immorality and massaging of the Local Government System. Clearly, no interest in any kind of shared governance, which is what a reformed local government system is all about.

Quite a few citizens are unaware of the seriousness of this issue and may be unaware that we live in the environment of an elected dictatorship, where all good and bad, like the old imperial master must flow from one source.

I pointed out to certain pastors recently, how unhappily many are selling their souls and the welfare of their descendants at the altar of personal perks, privileges and social mobility. In other words, compromising principles they proclaim.

Messers Raphael Trotman and Robert Corbin are absolutely correct on this issue. I recall attending a conference hosted by the African Cultural Development Association (ACDA) attended by a cross-section of Afro-based, social and religious organizations, which unanimously agreed that there must be some form of shared governance as a sine qua non -an absolute requirement before any elections. (local or general).

I know history will absolve those of us who, in spite of a hostile environment and state monopoly of radio, and75-80% control of the print media and television, media stand up for justice and truth.

Let justice prevail even though the heavens fall.

Yours faithfully,
Hamilton Green J.P.