Dear Editor,
General elections are exciting but troubling times in this young Guyanese nation. The electoral campaign has the tendency of bringing out the very worst primordial sentiments in the protagonists whose ultimate goal is to promise the world to the electorate and to win the race by garnering the majority votes. Even more so, in a critical election like this one when the two main political parties seem to have an equal chance at capturing the seat of power. We have grown accustomed, unfortunately, to the ethnic divide that brings out the worse in some of us, and many expect nothing more than an electoral result that will again be reflective of our ethnic/racial divide and bifurcated society.
However, what is particularly disturbing about this election campaign is the vitriol and the no holds barred political jargon that are attributed to the key players in this electoral race. Unflattering remarks made by politicians caught on an open microphone is one thing, and what people say and discuss in the confines of their private space is another. However, if what has been reported in the Guyana dailies is true regarding the statements attributed to the Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, towards a young lady, in the presence of others, at the Whim Magistrate’s Court, then it is particularly disturbing, and disgusting. The long-serving Minister should know better. Politicians, as they say, “have thick skins” and are expected to be prepared for anything. His deportment makes him unfit to serve the Guyanese people (particularly women who make up 50% of the population). This statement is coming at a time when the PPP/C, as well as APNU/AFC, are both attempting to impress upon the Guyanese people their genuine concern for oppressed women and women’s rights.
It is heartening to note that the Prime Ministerial candidate, Elisabeth Harper, has quickly, and roundly condemned the Minister’s statements. Kudos to her. That in itself, however, is not nearly enough. The Minister should be relieved of his portfolio or the Minister should resign on his own volition. Donald Ramotar should do the right thing, for the good of society. If he is ambivalent, he should note this: His action might very well give a much-needed boost to his political campaign and it will clearly demonstrate his party’s genuine contempt for and opposition to individuals or statements that belittle women in our society
Yours faithfully,
Dr. Baytoram Ramharack
