NO LONGER AFRAID TO SPEAK OUT

Jun 25, 2017 Editorial, Features / Columnists

It is said that change generally occurs through the planting and the subsequent growth of ideas that capture the imagination of the public. Over the years, this publication has served as the catalyst behind many significant changes in the country. Its role in national development is to increase the flow of truthful information that plants the seed of change.
Contrary to common belief, the seeds of change do not necessarily have to be planted always by persons in positions of power. Rather, this can occur sometimes through the efforts of the ordinary man or woman in the street who feels sufficiently passionate about an idea and is motivated to share it with their fellow citizens.
This is being done by our loyal letter writers who take the time ever so often to share their ideas and thoughts on issues with a national and, indeed, the global audience served by Kaieteur News. Many believe that their invaluable and candid contributions have helped to shape policies. To those sitting quietly on the sidelines, we encourage them to join the debate and to let their voices be heard. Together we can make change for the better.
There are the regular contributors who have and continue to make priceless contributions to public debate via the letter pages. In some cases, their wit enables us to see the lighter side of a complex issue and their wisdom provides us with an in depth view of the various problems in the country. The decision-makers often take note of the pearls of wisdom which flow from their pens.
These individuals are not just seeking a national platform to sound off because they have a lot of time to do so or hot air to blow off. They are genuine and passionate persons who have the national interest at heart and want the best for their fellow citizens and the country.
The quality of decision-making can certainly be enhanced through the input from ordinary citizens.
It is said that the best ideas which can inform practical solutions to problems do not necessarily reside with politicians but often come from the ordinary citizens. This is so because the average citizen often speaks from the fountain of their daily living experience, hence the saying “who feels it knows it.” Studies have shown that a major flaw in decision-making is that it tends to be driven more by a top-down rather than a bottom-up approach.
Guyana has a rich history of this approach and the tradition continues with the present government. While several other platforms exist today for the sharing of views and ideas, more letter writers, especially youths, have chosen this publication to express their views. In fact, the more, the merrier! This is a testimony to freedom of the press and to the fact that our democracy is flourishing.
Citizens are no longer shy about writing letters to the media even if they are controversial. But some of them seek anonymity. The reason is often spouted as someone fearing victimization. But there are the others who are scared to expose themselves for fear of offending someone in a powerful position.
The deep-seated fear that had engulfed the nation during the last administration has disappeared. The exercise of free speech is a right granted to every one under the Constitution which means that very citizen has a right to express his or her opinions and ideas.

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