Pegasus owner calls out industry leaders against corruption and racism

Apr 06, 2015 News

– endorses APNU+AFC Coalition

Pegasus Hotel owner Robert Badal encouraged Essequibians last Saturday to vote for the APNU+AFC Coalition, which he said will considerably change the course of Guyana for the better.
Badal told a large gathering at Damon Square, Anna Regina that the unity train is swiftly accelerating towards May 11 to take over the reign of power and deal with the many issues that are confronting Guyanese.
Badal listed many issues facing the population, one of which is the state of the rice industry, in which he is integrally involved.
He sympathized with rice farmers who plant their crops and cannot get a fair price because of mismanagement of the sector, adding that only proper leadership will erase the rift and strife between millers and farmers.
According to Badal after 23 years in government, the PPP/C administration has little to show for the billions of dollars spent in the country.

Pegasus Hotel owner Robert Badal

“Look at our roads, drains, daily robberies, corruption in public office, unexplained wealth of those in power, no checks to their lifestyles, cars and multiple mansions,” Badal charged.
“Those in public office have little regard for the interest of young Guyanese. They behave as if they own us; they are lawless and operate above the law. In a totally authoritarian fashion, they levy high taxes, spend your money as if it belongs to them for the exclusive benefit of themselves and their friends.”
Badal said that being a businessman, it is uncomfortable for many like him to be on the political platform since “there have been many cases of businessmen being victimized, harassed and their businesses being targeted.”
However, he declared that while there is fear, this must be confronted in order to conquer.
“Very often, leaders in society must lead the charge without fear. In times of distress, society looks up to leaders who must act without fear. It is at this juncture I believe the captains of industry have a duty to raise their voices against racist and corrupt regimes.”
“It is a national disgrace and shame that after 23 years in office, the majority of Guyanese families still depend on remittances
from overseas families. We cannot provide reliable electricity for our kids to do their homework and cannot feel safe in our own homes. Our health system is the worst in the Region; youths can’t find jobs; basic democratic institutions are absent; our city is the dirtiest in the world.”
Badal said that the PPP is incompetent and when this is combined with corruption, “everything gets destroyed.”
He turned his attention to the ailing Guysuco, which he described as bankrupt because of poor decisions and corruption, especially in regard to the US$200M Skeldon Sugar Plant and the Enmore packaging company.
The National Insurance Scheme he said is insolvent as a result of the money given to Clico.
“The fiber optic cable is nowhere to be seen. After US$58M on Marriot we still have to find $50M per month to foot the operating expense of the hotel which will amount to $600M annually.”
“I could go on and on, but it is your money; your money that has gone down the drain and you will have to act against this regime.
Contrast this with the sacrifices made when 30 percent taxes is deducted and given to the government before you receive your salary. You have to pay 16 percent VAT when you shop. When you buy a car, you have to give the government one car free, in taxes; an SUV you have to give them two SUVs in taxes.”
Badal said this election is not about David Granger or Nagamootoo or Ramjattan, or the PPP, or Donald Ramotar.
“It is about you changing the course of this country. It is about finding honest, credible leaders that will have policies for a better life.”
Many persons have kids to send to school, but cannot afford university education and students do not have jobs. “But this is in your hand and you must come out on May 11 and mark your X for the unity party.”