Dear Editor,
I refer to an article in the Kaieteur News captioned, ‘Regionalism and national Development’ dated Sunday, January 28, concerning President David Granger’s remarks at the Second Meeting of the National Regional Development Consultative Committee on January 19. Without fear of contradiction, I would like to state that more than ever, I am confident that the future of this beautiful country is clear and very promising.
The presentation by the President was splendid and timely, especially considering the fact that Guyana has just discovered its largest oil deposit and could soon be ranked among some of the world’s leading oil producing countries. I personally read the article about two times and examined its content diligently, because it speaks of how committed and dedicated this government is in ensuring that the people have a voice in the decision-making process on matters that will affect their lives. Also I was particularly impressed by the way the Head-of- State spoke on the history of regionalism in the context of Guyana, and its importance in earlier times and now.
In addition, I share a similar sentiment that for over two decades the progress of local democracy was stymied. It is clear to me and should be clear to anyone who looked at what transpired during those periods that the decentralization of authority and devolving powers to local organs were never on the agenda. Yet today, in spite of all the effort on the part of this coalition government to maintain the separation of powers and to return local democracy, we hear of sorts of distracting and opposing opinions about the government, which is of the people, by the people and for the people. Those cynics who hold opposing views remind me of former US President Barack Obama words, that when in the opposition, they advocate democracy, but when in government, they are ruthless in suppressing the rights of others.
I would suggest that we ignore the critics and continue in our effort to fight for social cohesion.
We have to find common ground for unity to take root. This is the time for us to put aside petty grievances and work together to build our regions and our country. I really think we have an opportunity here, to make Guyana better again. As President Granger said in his remarks, Each region, eventually, should have its own aerodromes and chambers of commerce should be capable of creating employment opportunities for its young people by attracting investors and encouraging commerce. A rich country cannot be built on poor regions. We have a lot of work to do and no time to waste on pettiness. “The future belongs to those who prepared for it today.”
Yours faithfully,
Michael Hercules
Citizen of Guyana
