Be thankful strong voices exist in the media

Dec 29, 2024 Letters

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Dear Editor,

Several recent editorials, columns (including from Peeping Tom), and other commentaries (Letters) from various well-known writers have left a lasting impression on readers.

The writings were attention grabbing and made for enjoyable reading.  They are praised by readers, although I don’t agree with all the views. But one is impressed with the articulation of viewpoints and commend the writers for their writing skills and for raising public awareness of issues critical to responsible governance and accountability. They displayed a gift for writing, presenting views that were insightful, inspiring, and enlightening.

Haddiyah Mohamed justifiably assailed politicians for broken promises and for failing the nation. Her latest essay was evocative and is filled with passion and genuine compassion.  She praised her parents and, by extension, all responsible mothers and fathers for their hard work in providing for the family.  She reminded about the sacrifices parents made under extremely difficult economic conditions when one had to hide and eat bread and roti, fearing being caught by the police with banned goods, the consequences of which included fine and jail.

She came across as caring and authentic. She is applauded for studying journalism at one of the finest universities in the UK and is now pursuing international relations at Oxford, among the best universities in the world. She does not sell her soul for a stipend. She will make an outstanding scholar and great leader, the kind the country lacks and needs.

Pt Ubraj criticized those who pursue ethnic exclusivism and calls for inclusiveness and coalition politics to address racial divisions. This young man will bring new energy needed in politics.

Derrick Cummings reminded readers about the sacrifice of Robert Corbin to unite the fractured opposition in an effort to make it electable after four successive defeats in democratic elections. Corbin had a controversial political life and led the PNC to a humiliating defeat in 2006.  He stepped down and promoted David Granger as leader of a transformed PNC that united with mini parties into APNU.

Cummings’s missive is an indirect critique of the current leadership of the PNC that has failed to bring together disparate factions in forming a strong alliance with other opposition forces.

The PPP will crush any opposition led by Aubrey Norton, who has no traction outside of hard-core PNC sycophantic strongholds. Opposition supporters find Amanza Walton Desir, Roysdale Forde, Nigel Hughes, and Carl Greenidge, among a few others more attractive in the base.

GHK Lall displayed courage in writing on issues few dared to raise.  He is a wordsmith, though many find him verbose.  A prolific writer, he has complete control over the usage of words and command of the King’s language. He has a way with words that none other has demonstrated. Young writers should learn from him. He was truthful and amusing on relevant topical issues. One gets a hearty laugh from the sarcasms in his writings. He holds all political parties and politicians accountable and, at times, even critical of writers like me. He cares for people, unlike most politicians and writers who sell their souls.

Keith Bernard rightly excoriated politicians for their “mean spirited political debate”.  He slammed both sides, holding them responsible for the state of affairs of the country. Politicians should think of the country first rather than their pockets.

Chris Ram, Dr. Jerry Jailall and Jai Lall, as usual, were brilliant in articulating their views on contemporary issues.  Ram’s ability to explain complex issues is admirable and has a reputation of being uncompromising on matters of integrity. And there are other writers, too many to mention, who also write brilliantly with admirable opinions and positions.

Peeping Tom was at his or her best with viewpoints on governance, political leadership, politicians, energy, and other topics. Some of the editorials are mind-blowing.

All of the above exhibited eloquence in their writings, which were well structured and well-argued and substantiated with ‘data’. They were also balanced. The timing for their articles was perfect and arguments compelling.

Their topics were informative, interesting, and educational. Readers much appreciate their contributions to debates. The country ought to be grateful that such strong voices exist in the media regardless of whether one agrees or disagrees with their viewpoints. Their honesty and courage are a beacon of hope for the country.

Happy New Year!

Yours truly,

Vishnu Bisram

(Be thankful strong voices exist in the media)

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• accountability, Haddiyah Mohamed, responsible governance, strong voices exist in the media, the consequences

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