Stop misusing 10-day workers

Apr 17, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor,

It is with a heavy heart and growing concern that I write to address a deeply troubling issue that should alarm every right-thinking citizen of our country. Reports have emerged that ten workers are held against their will and coerced into attending political meetings organized by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). Even more disheartening is the revelation that some of these individuals were forced to abandon their personal obligations and responsibilities—one reportedly even being pregnant and still made to carry out party duties.

This is not just an inconvenience or an internal issue. This is outright abuse of power. It is exploitative, unjust, and inhumane. No citizen, regardless of political belief, economic status, or employment situation, should be treated as a political pawn to serve the interests of any political entity.

The workplace should be a space where individuals can earn a living, contribute meaningfully, and maintain their dignity. Instead, what we are seeing is a disturbing trend where loyalty is being demanded under duress, and where fear, manipulation, and obligation are being weaponized to build political crowds and showmanship. Such tactics undermine the very principles of democracy and good governance.

It is especially egregious that individuals with personal and even medical obligations, such as pregnancy, are not being spared from these coercive acts. What message does this send to our society? That political optics are more important than human dignity? That party allegiance outweighs personal freedom?

Let us be clear: participation in political activities must be voluntary and guided by personal conviction, not intimidation, pressure, or fear of victimization. Any form of compulsion is a violation of basic human rights and democratic norms. The abuse of State resources or authority to further political agendas erodes public trust, dehumanizes individuals, and corrupts the institutions meant to serve the people.

This issue must be investigated thoroughly, and those responsible must be held to account. We cannot allow this kind of exploitation to become a normalized part of our political culture. It sets a dangerous precedent and undermines everything we claim to stand for as a developing and democratic nation.

We must draw a line. Let us speak for those who feel voiceless, for those who fear reprisal, and for the many who suffer in silence. Our people deserve better. They deserve the right to choose freely and without fear.

Sincerely,

Ray Rampersaud

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