Dear Editor,
Yesterday, as Regional Chairman, I witnessed one of the most atrocious acts of political thuggery perpetrated by someone who can only be considered a lackey of the Government.
As I finished my remarks as Chairman of the Region, I could not help but admire the glossy eyes of citizens and stakeholders sitting in the audience.
As an advocate for peace and progress, my remarks hinged on the mantras of peace, love and unity, echoing the sentiments of social cohesion and working together towards the development of Guyana by extending the cordial hand of friendship to all stakeholders who share in the same beliefs, despite their differences.
As the atmosphere of peace, love, and unity enveloped the audience, I noticed that the programme was predominantly male-dominated and, therefore, invited the Hon. Catherine Hughes MP to give brief remarks and add diversity. This announcement was well-received by the audience, who all applauded in approval.
However, the afternoon’s activity was marred by the inappropriate and vile actions of the Government’s Regional Executive Officer (REO), Mr. Donald Gajraj, who insisted that Mrs. Hughes could not speak and further tried to snatch the microphone from my hand as I stood at the podium.
To add further insult to the situation, the REO behaved intolerably in the presence of the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony MP, other Members of Parliament, members of the joint services, school children, and other local, regional, and national stakeholders.
In response to this foul act, I withdrew from the ceremony as to not partake in what was moved from an anniversary ceremony to now a political circus. The behaviour of the REO shocked all and left a feeling of concern to all present.
In a time when maturity should prevail, especially in public settings, this would be a prime example of how not to do so. In a ceremony when all speakers up to the time of my departure spoke on peace, love, and unity, this was clearly a contradiction to everything said, and the most profound misrepresentation of the Government’s ‘One Guyana’ initiative championed by none other than President Irfaan Ali.
If this is the Government’s representation of ‘One Guyana,’ by the actions of this officer, then I fear for where we are headed.
I call upon all right-thinking Guyanese to take note of this behaviour and rebuke it in the sternest of ways.
Yesterday, I was in disbelief at what I saw, I was shocked at such uncivilized behaviour, but I was also strengthened and encouraged to stamp it out and ensure it is not repeated.
I will not rest until such behaviour is eradicated from the Demerara-Mahaica Region and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana at large.
To the Government, the REO has demonstrated that he is not fit for the office he holds, and has brought disrespect and embarrassment to himself, the RDC and the people of Guyana. The ball is in your court to deal with this situation as the public looks on for the necessary corrective measures.
This is not my usual Republican Anniversary post, but it is definitely an eye-opener that we have a long way to go in building a nation that truly exemplifies One People, One Nation, One Destiny, and we must not let uncouth characters stand in our way.
Happy 53rd Republican Anniversary.
Happy Mashramani.
Daniel Seeram, J.P.
Regional Chairman
Demerara-Mahaica
Regional Democratic Council
Region No.4
