Dear Editor,
Reference is made to the news item titled ‘Tax Chief refutes GRA’s reasons for sacking –claims he was asked to do illegal things’ (KN, January 23). I hope that two of the assertions made by former Commissioner General, Mr Khurshid Sattaur, are inaccurate and without factual basis. If not, there is cause for serious concern.
Mr Sattaur’s statement of illegal things at the GRA included a) persons with questionable records being promoted; and b) persons previously dismissed for corrupt practices rehired. While there are other representations, I limit my comments to the two identified here.
If Mr Sattaur’s claims are accurate, then it is déjà vu again and already. It tells me that zero tolerance and codes of conduct and high standards and clean governance are sick jokes, and have only spittle and froth for substance. The (senior) people who bandy these qualitatively ringing intentions and postures about run the risk of being categorized as deceivers, dishonourable, and immoral. It tells me that this government is too quickly mirroring the appalling errors of judgment of its predecessors. It tells me (and all of us) that it is party time, with party hacks revelling in unbridled joy. Just like they used to in the days thought to be over. This has the tainting touch of jobs for the boys, of greasing the rusted parts of the party apparatus, and of paramountcy of the party’s interests all over again. It is the last twenty-three years. Again! It is the calumnies and monstrosities of before unleashed on the weary and jaded of this land. Again!
Honest and conscientious individuals have been tarnished by circumstances and practices in places less enticing and less lucrative than the GRA. The GRA is not the place to tempt the ethically feeble. It is not the place to house those who failed and fell before. I believe in second chances, and that fallen angels can find god, discover conscience, and develop principle, patriotism, and the whole works; but not like this, and not at the GRA. It is too irresistible.
Now if these disclosures by the former Commissioner General have some foundation, then what is happening at lower profile entities with less visible promotions and hiring? That is, where there is no aggrieved former head assuming the incredible role of a very public whistleblower? To repeat: what is happening in those confines? I have said before: one of the keys to any serious intent and drive by this government to do right reside in the people it attracts, and the people it elects. No explanations ought to be needed. Otherwise, it is the same sad song, just different singers, and more disillusioned listeners.
Talking about disillusion, a number of citizens have said to me: “I am disappointed.” It has been my self-appointed role to urge patience, to give a chance, but to be watchful. Now, given Mr Sattaur’s revelations, one must ask: what is new about the promised newness of today? Unless, the former Commissioner General is way off base, and manufacturing straws, then it is the old tawdry, smelly, oozy, sleazy, ugly days and ways that went before. Again!
This is the last situation that hopeful trusting citizens of this country needs. This sounds like business as usual. Worse yet, it feels like betrayal. If the allegations hold up, it is insulting.
Yours faithfully,
GHK Lall
