I was thrown into a minor dilemma as I was preparing this piece much earlier in the week. Why? Because my really “usually reliable source” on these matters had last week indicated that it seemed that the tenth Parliament of Guyana would be convened sometime next week.
Lo and behold, President Ramotar decreed that yesterday was time enough for Parliament’s legislative business to begin. If all went as planned the newly-sworn in Parliamentarians would have decided – (huh?) – on whom they “preferred” to be their speaker – the knowledgeable, impartial chairman of the Assembly versed in that body’s vital standing orders. Oh well, hope springs eternal in Fenty’s breast.
The President will address the ceremonial opening of Parliament later. I wish to pre-empt my new President. I want to suggest a few issues for him to include in his constitutionally – recommended address which “launches” the Parliament. (Those interested would know by now that in Guyana “Parliament” means / is comprised of the president and the National Assembly of members.
The president is vital to the successful conclusion of the Parliament’s work, but he appears in the National Assembly only once – at its ceremonial Opening Session when he delivers what should be an inspiring, persuasive address.)
This is comprised of some things I hope the president would say.
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A Grand Statesman Opportunity
What a grand opportunity for one who could be a (potential) Statesman of Guyana. A true leader and healer for all the citizens of this beautiful but decades – long blighted Republic.
I hope the President, his Excellency Donald Rabindranauth Ramotar, personally personifying multiple- ethnicities of his country, would say that: (I) as the reincarnation Rupert Roopnaraine hopes, in recalling Cheddi Jagan’s own Opening Address to the October 1992 Parliament, there will be the paramountcy of Parliament; meaning that his government will respect the status and function of the Parliament of which he is a vital part. In a word, I trust the President will announce that he acknowledges, practically, that the National Assembly will become the nation’s highest forum indeed; the true final arbiter of decisions in the people’s welfare.
Look! I’m sure that our President will promise, solemnly that his government’s own legislative programme would include the eventual passage of an acceptable (ii) Freedom of/access to information Act; the permission to (iii) really allow other private/public radio stations; (iv) tax reform laws; (v) even legislation, if necessary, to ensure that agreements for major investments to be scrutinized and blessed by parliament’s wisdom
I am aware of the long list of priorities the Parties and the nation have in mind for the Assembly’s consideration. However, I trust that the President, stepping out of his PPP box will announce measures to inspire national confidence that improved governance – including foreign policy – could now benefit from the collective wisdom and contributions of non-governmental organizations and local government entities; and that State Corporations’ Boards and their CEO’s will now attract abilities from far and wide – including the Guyanese Diaspora for which structured (ministerial) arrangements should be made.
What a short, merely-indicative list of wishes above. So suspecting what the Opposition has planned for its own Parliamentary agenda, I’ll stop for now, and just wish those new, powerful parliamentary sub-committees, much success.
Cry, my beloved capital
Oh my once-beautiful, still beloved Georgetown. Just look what you’ve become. You now boast the status of the most stinking, smelly city in this Region. Yet when I moved around Suriname’s Paramaribo a few months ago, I appreciated what a better, beautiful city you were and can be.
Yes readers, I mourn for Georgetown and for the reasons it has become the Garbage Dump of the Region. (Would you pretend at being a mayor or city councilor, right now?)
But I won’t go on at the capital’s deterioration right now. Except to mention that when the new Assembly meets in the Public Buildings, even that edifice and its surroundings are diminished by the dirt and pavement dwellers. Guess what however? To the east of the Public Buildings, next to St Stanislaus College, someone is construct
ing a recreation area, replete with water fountain! Beautification amidst squalor, boy!
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Mash, APNU-and
Mark’s leap year
I’ll develop my Mashramani piece next time as I still reserve a special place for this national festival in my mind.
Being a small part of the planning, I am interested in the fact that there are certain entities which have chosen not to be any part of the festival which celebrates our Republic’s anniversary status. They have boycotted without saying so!
One legacy of the Burnham times and doings is Mash. I’m sure APNU’s PNC knows this. The “Youth Group”, being aware of this proud history, has to honour it. Will their Green APNU-NAMI divert to Congress Place come February 23? Until.
What is a “Leap Year”? Mark showed me info to expand on my contention that the extra Leap Day, February 29, every four years, does not come about merely because every year is comprised of 365 and one-quarter (365 ¼) days
Not that this is wrong but it is really a little less. Do the research and learn about the Gregorian calendar, solar and calendar years. You’ll appreciate why this 2012 is a “Leap Year”.
Until…
*1) Remember now, law-abiding citizens, those vicious rapists, who violate both our tots and grannies, have “rights” too! Right?
*2) Congrats to the historic Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), celebrating 100 years this year.
`Til next week!
