Who will be saviour and redeemer for this blighted, uncaring land?

Jan 17, 2019 Letters

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DEAR EDITOR,

It is party time. Somehow, I thought that the festive season was over since it is almost the middle of dry January. This being Guyana, apparently it is just beginning. That 2 a.m., curfew has no effect; who cares about recorded music? Not when everyone (and anyone) can make their own.
Well, that certainly seems to be the case, with Guyanese lovelies tumbling over one another to get on the political dance floor. Yes, it is that kind of party, and it promises to get crowded and louder. I shall refrain from any disparagements through verbal assassination. Some of the persons of interest seeking to generate electoral interest speak loudly and vituperatively for themselves. I caution: be vigilant about guilt by association.
Remember that old Guyanese saw: show me yuh company….” Just don’t show the police or any not-so-old social media clips. Still, I must commend men and women for stepping forward and wanting to do better for a savaged electorate. The qualifier in my book is simple: those aspiring must be better through and through. No history of slick personal, professional, legal, or commercial behavior; no questionable standards in matters that are of a serious nature; no old painted over skeletons. If so, then keep on trucking and earning and collecting. Be such on the side, below the radar, or through suspect arrangements with even more suspicious characters.
Always good to see Guyanese rising to the occasion; I give credit. Whither voter interest? Whither traction and momentum? Whither credibility and sustainability? Ah, if only I were younger….I stray. More should be expected, as it is not only party time, but open hunting season.
Some sense a crack in the armour of the aging political dinosaurs that have ruled the social jungle that is Guyana; but I think they overreach and too early. Here is the top and bottom line: the voter base has not changed; its feet are shod in clay. If that is a little too thick to digest, then try molasses.
The voting segments in this country have a heroic strain and martyr’s complex. They will sacrifice for the good of the parties, even if that is not so good for them. If I may be excused for mixing this up and venturing into strange territory, I suggest that the few thoughtful constructive citizens still around look around dispassionately. This is what they should and would conclude: the Guyanese voting population is afflicted with a severe case of Stockholm Syndrome. What is that and where is that?
The geography and origin can always be figured out. But, as is well known, Stockholm Syndrome in a nutshell, is where the abused, intimidated, brainwashed, and bamboozled identify closely (inseparably) with their abusers.
From my perspective, that is what has happened to the Guyanese voter – whether older or newer, more experienced in life’s unending vicissitudes or more callow as to the ways of the world – who have all succumbed to the stridencies and memories of forbears, the animosities of community and contemporary, and the cajolery, trickery, and rapacity of political confidence men.
And just to be inclusive and balanced, the participating women should not be forgotten. But clearly and undeniably, the victimized and brutalized Guyanese public and voter is not willing, not listening, not thinking, and not acting in any way than they have always done. Expect more of the same, newcomers or not.
I am certain there are more political groups in the woodwork, deciding on an opportune hour to make a grand announcement and grander arrival. The problem is that there would most likely be a meagre few on hand to welcome and encourage. It is more than being jaded; it is merely a reflection of how set people are in their ways. Yes, the Guyanese people are angry, disappointed, disgusted, and disillusioned. But I assert: not enough, and not right now…perhaps not in the foreseeable future.
As an example, I have some regard for ANUG, at least some of the people driving that bus; I think it has credibility and character. Yet, I do not think that it will attract much of a following outside of the smart set and shrunk thinking class. And neither of those would be enough to make a difference.
I applaud Mr. Shuman for voluntarily relinquishing his dual citizenship; not a simple or easy decision. I am, however, taken aback by current hesitation to disclose financial details now. To me, that does not register well. Having taken the bold admirable step of giving up that coveted citizenship, it would be real praiseworthy to continue with the financial disclosure. Clear. Up front. No hedging.
In the meantime, I think the leading political men and women, who still control the show know that it has to go on. There is one difference that can gather a head of steam as time unfolds in the years ahead. They know it well, and as best rendered and made famous by Carlos Antonio Figueroa Santana: you got to change your evil ways. And evil it has been.
The Young Turks (and few whippersnappers in the midst) are banging on the door and nipping sharply at the heels. What will it be? Who will be saviour and redeemer for this blighted, uncaring land?

Sincerely,
GJK Lall

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