From third force to First Choice

Jul 26, 2009 AFC Column, Features / Columnists

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By Raphael Trotman
AFC Leader

This weekend the Delegates, Observers, guests, well wishers and supporters gathered to share in the historic moment of the 2nd Delegates’ Convention of the Alliance For Change. The theme for the Convention is “From third force to First Choice.”
This Convention was held at a most unique time in Guyana’s history. The economy is still reeling from the effects of the world financial crisis, the damage caused by the criminality that surrounded the CLICO and NIS that placed thousands into financial ruins and jeopardy; the revelations of Roger Khan, and the general decline of the political currency of the ruling party.

Simultaneously, the unraveling of other opposition forces compels us to seize the moment, not for the attainment of power for power’s sake, but to be able to seize the opportunity to present the AFC as being the best alternative for safe, steady and secure government in these troubled times.
We have no option, but to take up the responsibility that continues to be placed on us daily by the large numbers of persons seeking membership and a closer association with us. Since 1966 the people have been able to see “government” in all its ugly forms and manifestations, and now, there is an opportunity to make a real break with the past and to bring change to Guyana.

Today, the name AFC continues to spread into the hills and byways of this country and abroad. We know that the work is ongoing and has not been perfect, and that we must keep our feet to the ground at all times, lest we become entrapped by the vice of conceit that leads to inflated and unearned feelings of superiority.
It is for you our members and supporters to remind us that we are placed in positions of trust and influence to serve, and not to be served. In the midst of the madness, the AFC has been steadily and surely building its base as is reflected in the numbers of Delegates and Observers who participated, and the huge Diaspora representation that was in attendance this year.
Apart from the urban centres of Georgetown, New Amsterdam, and Linden, Delegates and Observers have come from as far away as Aishalton, Orealla, Port Kaituma, Moruca, Kwakwani, New York, Canada and the United Kingdom to ensure that our Convention was successful, but more importantly, that the Party is positioned to assume the reins of Government in two years’ time.

We have continued, with limited resources, but yet fueled by our passion for change, and the expectations of the people, to reach out across communities of every shape and size, to spread our message of hope, and this message has been well received. The AFC has no Roger Khan, CLICO, NIS, road contractor, or medical supplier to keep it going, only the small contributions and goodwill of ordinary people. We are proud of what we have, and grateful for what we have received honestly.
The AFC has a tremendous role to play. “It may appear as though it is confusion but it is the work of God” is one message that was told to me and I believe it. We are reminded of Shakespeare’s admonition regarding greatness and centuries later, it remains just as true and relevant for the AFC. I say to you therefore, “Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them”.

The AFC was born to be great, is destined to achieve greatness, and has had greatness thrust on it by the people of Guyana. With this in mind, we have to accept that we all have our individual roles and responsibilities to play and perform. No person is too small or too big for the task at hand.
If you don’t believe that in the few short years of its existence that the AFC is well on its way to achieving greatness, just ask President Jagdeo, he agrees, in fact every time he opens his mouth its AFC, AFC, Trotman, Ramjattan and the AFC. He is our best advocate as he has ensured that the world knows about the AFC, and that with its partners and allies, will be the next government of Guyana.
The AFC with its five seats and its thousands of supporters has achieved much in the past two years since the last convention was held. We have shared thousands of seedling plants to citizens across the country; we have given aid and relief to hundreds after fires, to the homeless and destitute, and we have quietly ensured that dozens have been educated. We have done this all on behalf of and with the people.

We have persevered against the odds and established a brand, we have taken the fight not only to the government but to the establishment that supports weak government bent on disrespecting the rights of citizens, and enriching itself whilst the majority starves and pleads for relief.
Our objective is to see the restoration of the respect for the rule of law and the institutions of state, and the redistribution and devolution of power to ensure that the constitutional mandate of the practice of inclusive governance is achieved. In this way we will establish a happy and harmonious society.
I conclude with two messages. One for our detractors and attackers, and another for our faithful supporters. To the dark and disturbed group that wishes us destroyed, I say that we will stand up to the attacks, we will defend ourselves, and we will prevail at the end of this battle.

Our strength and courage is beyond the individual leaders of the AFC and is to be found in the beautiful hearts of the tireless women of Ituni, the simple people of Moruca, the vendors and shoppers on Bourda green and the proud and powerful people of Linden. Ours is a just battle that will be won. Psalm 91 tells us that “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most high shall abide under the shadow of the almighty. I will say of the Lord he is my refuge and my fortress. In him will I trust.”
To the people of Guyana from where we draw our support and sustenance, we say prepare, and be ready to take up the responsibility to bring change to Guyana. Overcome your fear as this is the only weapon left in the hands of the enemy, and you have power to defeat it if you just decide to. Change is at hand; it is in your hands to deliver. You can do it. Long live the Alliance For Change!

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