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The facts about the treatment of the M&CC are well known

Nov 30, 2010 Letters

Dear Editor,
I react to the letter written by one Richard Drakes, titled: “The Mayor has achieved nothing positive for the people of Georgetown”, (Kaieteur News, Sunday, November 28, 2010).
In every situation, there are valid and other reasons. In the case of Georgetown one should deal with facts — the empirical evidence and nothing else.
The facts about the treatment of the Georgetown Municipality are well known except to Mr. Drakes.
First, anyone who knows Guyana will know that I was better known as ‘Action Green’ and got things done. This was so before the constraints put in my way, from the time I assumed the office of Mayor.
Mr. Drakes’ first salvo is that, “the Mayor’s foremost achievement has been the dismissal of black senior officers, who are independent in thought and action and are not loyal to him.”
This is a foolish statement intended to excite a racial bias.
Fact — City Hall senior officers’ corps, thanks to its history, is over 90% black. I’ve had individually and collectively, drawn this fact to their attention, and pleaded with them that because of our extant, social, and political environment, they should be like Caesar’s wife, that is, above and beyond reproach.
In spite of this, some set seem bent on corrupt and illegal practices. This I refuse to accept from black, blue or brown.
These officers, who were dismissed deserved it, indeed, read the last of several reports, they could well have been in prison.
It matters little to me the race, creed or politics of an officer, throughout my public life, all I asked for was honesty and productivity.
In another capacity, I had an officer who was a staunch PPP member, but on the job was an excellent performer – up to his last days; we got on very well, and never had a difficulty.
Mr. Drakes must say which black officer was dismissed without good cause – mind you, the law does not give the Mayor the authority to dismiss or rehire any senior officer, and this has been one of my complaints for years.
Next, at this very moment we have three ongoing investigations, one by the Auditor General based.
Yet another written statement given to me by a business person is now engaging my attention. This may trigger another investigation by the appropriate authorities. All persons “fingered” are “black officers.” Who I’ve asked many times to set the example of rectitude?
The basis of the fights and quarrels with officers is where there are dear cases of breach of protocol and principles of honesty, or sheer incompetence.
Those officers who are “straight” and productive enjoy an excellent relationship with me.
Mr. Drakes either never reads or is a self serving agent, yes, I have travelled and have seen modern cities – 10 years ago, the M&CC and the Cabinet approved a plan for the improvement of Georgetown, only the Central Government could trigger action. In spite of pleadings, nothing has happened.
What is he talking about, ‘the Dumpsite’?
Based on assurances given us, the new facility on the East Bank ought to be operational.
Mr. Drakes only blame the Mayor? You could not be serious.
If Richard Drakes remove his mask, he can arrange a public debate anywhere, anytime on the ills and potential of the city — he can bring along anyone he wishes, including those I quarrel with.
Let the truth prevail.
Hamilton Green, J.P.

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