Taxi drivers are some of the most interesting people to talk with. The conversations that some initiate with you during your journeys can be quite thought-provoking, although in some instances their opinions or beliefs can be illogical.
In this season, discussions about the political climate are not unusual, so most of my conversations with taxi drivers recently have been about the elections.
Loyalty
His slightly wrinkled skin and gray hair told that he has been on this earth for at least six decades. Making a remark about the flags of the two major political parties, he revealed that he was eager to vote and then added that he has always voted for a particular party. I try to avoid engaging in political discourse, especially with strangers, so I did not initially respond.
But he continued, enthusiastic about sharing his thoughts. If one is not a part of a group, he stated, one could never fully understand the needs of that group. He emphasised that one should first be concerned about the survival of their people before extending the courtesy to others. At this point, I reminded him that our political parties are multiethnic, as they should be, since Guyana is a multiethnic nation. Though traditionally groups have been known to support one political party or the other, whomever is in power is responsible for creating an environment for all citizens.
Still he persisted with his insistence that each group must first look out for their own. I told him that I agree that it may be necessary for individual ethnic groups to come together for purposes such as preserving their culture, but once again emphasised that the purpose of government is not to represent the interest of individual groups.
He argued that our cultures are diverse and therefore we do not fully understand each other and that has contributed to the divide. I said that there are many similarities. One can easily identify similarities in the spiritual practices and cultural norms. And we have been in this space together for so long, that we have integrated. What we have are remnants of our ancestors’ time, but nothing is like its original form. We should prioritise our Guyanese identity.
He asked me to consider the religious differences. I told him I did not hold any religion as totally true or totally false and that again all were derived from an amalgamation of similar thought – myths, history and perhaps some truth. This caused him to glance at me through the rearview mirror; I figured he thought that it was unusual for an Afro-Guyanese woman to express such thoughts on religion. By then I was nearing my stop and in conclusion his mind was not changed. On Monday March 2nd, regardless of the issues, history, or love for country, he was going to vote for his people.
The Optimist
Smiling he remarked, “This country gon get better and better you know.”
He said this with confidence. He had worked for his children and had had lived overseas for a number of years.
“In America you does got to wuk hard.”
He spoke about how missing a day of work in the United States could result in one being fired. Rent being late could result in one being homeless. Here he could work, park his car and nap whenever he felt. His home was his and already paid for. He had set a foundation for his children.
“The politicians gaffo come together,” he said.
The efforts have started, he said, noting the coalition.
He went on to speak about how great it would be if every politician decided to put their differences aside and together held countrywide consultations with the people. Sincerity, honesty and patriotism were the keys to do so.
He went on to speak about the foreigners coming into the country and though he believes Guyana is set to become every greater he also believes that if Guyanese don’t “hold one head” foreigners may take advantage of that.
He only echoed what many have been saying.
The ‘Ignant’
‘Ignant’ it is not my original term. Nevertheless, it applies to those who often appear illogical or daft.
He will not vote. He drives his car and politicians do not provide for him, so he does not need to vote. To engage him about the fact that his vote is his voice and helps to decide who will safeguard our resources and ensure that the systems in place are for the benefit of all Guyanese, seemed pointless. It did not take long for me to be tired of this man who declared that he had been to jail. He had broken bread with notorious criminals.
We spoke about the drug trade. He said that it is needed in Guyana for people the prosper. Drugs are running the entire world, he claimed, and so if Guyana was ever a narco-state, it is nothing unusual and is a way to prosperity. I was not sure what to say to him after that. I was a little shocked and a little peeved. We were coming from different experiences and I simply could not relate. I thought of the many others who may think like him.
As I exited the car, I felt that there was no conversion for this man, and I was in no way inspired to try to change his mind.
Conclusion
With elections just two days away, most Guyanese have made their decision. Another taxi driver asked if I had bought groceries for the days post the election. He remarked that he does not expect that there will be any disturbances, but it is tradition to make sure food is in one’s home around election time.
Whether one has decided to vote, not to vote or they are still undecided, we are not standing as one. As individuals we will support whatever political party we believe is best suited to lead this country. But regardless of whomever forms the government, it is for all the people. Nepotism betrays the people and, in some instances, hinders development. As Guyanese, it is our duty to continue to hold our government accountable, regardless of whether we support the ruling party or not.
