True Independence would only be achieved by our understanding and respect for the Constitution

May 26, 2009 Letters

Dear Editor,
True independence is to have knowledge, understanding and respect for the Constitution.
Today Guyanese will celebrate the most important event in the Nation’s history – our 43rd Independence anniversary.

It is, however, equally important that we also reflect on the birth of a document that was conceived as an experiment to discover hope.
This document is our Constitution. Hope because we were not sure how we were going to achieve the goals of our motto, but as a Nation we knew what we wanted One people, One nation, One destiny.
Some may say that I am speaking of the Constitution as if it is alive. In my humble opinion I believe this to be true.

I do believe in God, but as much as we try to separate religion and state, religion remains a hidden fact of our Constitution. It is because of this fact that Guyanese of all religious backgrounds are able to practice their faith without fear, as it ensures the promotion of all religions.
I am no scholar of this document; however, I do recognise that it was not designed to be perfect, but its ability to be subjected to change and re-interpretation allows it to evolve and adapt with the times, giving it a life-like characteristic.

Our heroes, from Mr. Burnham to Dr. Jagan, were all instrumental in its birth.
It is an embodiment of the thousands of lives that were lost to both internal and external threats to ensure that Guyana as a Nation continues to exist.
At times when the lawless beast is running rampant, it is our Constitution that is used to stop its rampage.
The Constitution gives us the right to exist as a sovereign state; places true power in the hands of the people; provides the people with democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice; encourages an independent judiciary; these rights allow Guyanese to make their contribution toward progress and happiness of humanity.

In most cases, our treatment, or rather mistreatment, of the Constitution, is due to the lack of respect for this document.
Whether one is a supporter of the ruling party or opposition, convenient amnesia should not overcome us when we don’t find favour with its rulings.
Instead, respect and appreciation should be shown, so as to better understand its future directions.
True independence would only be achieved by our knowledge, understanding and respect for the Constitution of Guyana.
This document should be made interactive, so that individuals may go online and ask questions and have it interpreted by professionals.

There should be healthy public debates about topics in relation to its interpretations.
It should be placed in every school, church, mosque, temple and other religious institutions, (after all, it equally affects religious persons), and it should be promoted throughout the general population.
Most Guyanese have failed to appreciate the freedom and rights granted to them by our Constitution.
It is here for all Guyanese; as such, all Guyanese should be there to defend it.
After all, only the ill-advised and those who choose to disrespect it will scorn the wisdom of its words.
Sharma Solomon