Dear Editor,
I am flummoxed by the excitement surrounding the upcoming visit of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Guyana. Mr. Modi is widely recognized as a staunch Hindu nationalist, and his unapologetic support for the demolition of a historic mosque to make way for one of the world’s most grandiose Hindu temples has been a source of controversy.
Considering this, I find myself wondering whether President Irfaan Ali, who has recently been outspoken about the importance of fair and balanced morals, will seize the opportunity to extend an invitation to Mr. Modi to visit his home mosque. Such a gesture could serve as a powerful statement of inclusivity and mutual respect, values that are fundamental to Guyana’s multicultural and multi-religious identity.
This moment offers an opportunity for dialogue and reflection on how leaders’ actions and attitudes resonate beyond their borders, affecting global feelings of tolerance and harmony.
Sincerely,
Keith Bernard