Dear Editor,
A handful of constructive reports in the media have prompted the following thoughts.
The Deputy Mayor, Mr Sherod Duncan, is not entitled to an official vehicle. He, therefore, has seen it fit to conduct the business attached to his office though the use of a bicycle. I like some of the public stands that Mr Duncan has taken. Now I urge him to stay with the bicycle, even if arrangements and accommodation were to be made for him to be blessed with an official vehicle. I recommend that he sticks to the bicycle for several reasons, including a) it brings him to the level of the people; b) it sends a message to, and shames, colleagues at City Hall; c) it identifies with the servant-leader model; d) it separates him from the ole heads and fat cats; and e) it covers more territory, permits meeting more citizens, leaves a parking space free, and helps with the strapped finances of the municipality. Also, I think that Georgetown is too small, and is better served by a bicycle than a motor vehicle. It is a win-win situation for the deputy mayor. Say hello to the mayor in waiting.
Next, President David Granger did what real leaders do with that “let bygones be bygones” comment and posture: They reach out to mend, to reconcile, and to heal. It was nicely done in the instance of the long-running RDC hostilities and imbroglio. More of this is called for at all levels, all around, and from all other leaders, bar none.
Then, it was announced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Carl Greenidge, that heads of mission will be rotated every three years. I think that is constructive. However, I would go a step further and present those same seniors with the option to remain for another year, or two maximum, before letting them depart on a high note. This is good for succession planning, ushers in different approaches and styles, and incentivizes those on the lower rungs in the Foreign Service. The thinking would be that there is opportunity and places to go.
Last, Crime Chief Blanhum and his sleuths keep producing results in case after case. I wish them more success. This sends strong messages to perpetrators and would-be perpetrators that the street (community) does not belong to them, and is being taken back; that the law owns them, and there is no place to hide. Meanwhile, law-abiding citizens are comforted in the confidence that there are real crime-busters working on their behalf, and making the place safer.
While the Chief and his group might have no spare capacity, I still appeal for another look (a serious one this time) at the Alicia Foster murder, and the disappearance of Lavoy Taljit. Any movement would be most welcome.
The ship of state is turning slowly, sometimes painfully so, but it is turning for the better. After all, it must be remembered it is an aircraft carrier that was run aground deliberately, and then left there to decay.
Yours faithfully,
GHK Lall