Dear Editor,
After some eight months of taking up their portfolios, it is timely and reasonable to assess the performance and presence of some ministers. Come to think of it, eight months is approximately a whole school year, with lots of experiences, learning, and stumbles, and, hopefully, some growth and wisdom. My observations have noted the good, the pedestrian, and the forgettable. I focus more on the plus side.
Given the advantage of prior exposure, Minister Trotman has hit the ground in stride, and appears to possess a good grasp of the fundamental requirements and expectations attached to his portfolio. As Natural Resources is a very sensitive and very watched sector, he has to be on top of his game. So far he has kept his nose clean, and is settling down smartly. Of course, the nation wants to know more of that corporate spectre operating in drag while speaking in tongues. It is known as Baishanlin. I would like to know why it is still in these parts.
On the other hand, the Minister of Public Security seems to struggle on occasion; he looks harried and overwhelmed. In fairness, this is all new to him and a 180 degree turn from the comfort zone of his professional life. The 24-hour demand on sharpness and focus is not to his liking. It shows. He has done some good things, but must polish edges. The GPF must be managed more closely. What are the near-term, intermediate, and long-term strategies? What are the mandatory deliverables? What are the desired mileposts? Through persistent zeal and immovable will, the Minister can leave an indelible mark for the better.
Attorney General Basil Williams grows increasingly comfortable and assured in his position. The caution is not to get too comfortable and too assured. He has weathered the fusillades of pointed criticisms with some degree of aplomb, and looks as though he relishes being the bull’s eye. I suggest some more care and improvements on personnel matters.
Then there is (where is he really?) Minister Greenidge, who has been banished to the comforts of first class travel and frequent flyer distances. What has he done for us lately? Word is that he is thinking of rejoining the faltering West Indies cricket team. Test cricket, that is.
I think that Minister Lawrence has done well as a people person; she has set some precedents and some standards. The Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, must get his arms ‒ and tightly ‒ around the GRA. Some PR coaching is recommended. Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson, needs to send unambiguous signals on the GPL, where it is going, and who is leading the charge. Consistency has to be a constant. Georgetown is doing better, looks better in spots, under his still short watch; and since I have been back, the garbage has never been collected so diligently. Small beginnings, but encouraging. Go for it, light up both the GPL and this city. Rather mysteriously, the Minister of Social Cohesion has all but disappeared. It would be disconcerting to think that she might be too busy trying to foster cohesion on the inside with this boisterous, sometimes cantankerous, group of political brethren. She just might have the whole world in her hands…
I did notice that Minister Harmon is recovering; he is a quick learner. Further rehabilitation ought not to be necessary. And I do recognize Minister Broomes’ industry, except that I have serious problems with conflicts of interest, real or otherwise. Why muddy the waters!
In closing, I hasten to assure those not mentioned that no insult is intended, although it has become clear that some are not equal to the demands of moment and situation. I did say earlier that the positives would be highlighted.
Yours faithfully,
GHK Lall
