Taking Back Our Country!

by Peter R. Ramsaroop

It seems talk of the Third Force is everywhere lately. I cannot go anywhere without being asked questions about the newly forming group. This is a very good sign because it shows that the people are still able to wrestle up enough hope and optimism from somewhere in their weary spirit to still believe in Guyana.

It also shows that Guyanese still care deeply about their country. They have not given up yet and are even willing to redefine the type of politics to which they have become accustomed with the hope that an alternative form of government can yet bring Guyana out of this arduous cycle of masochistic politics. The optimism that now fills our nation is nothing less than an indication of our dire need for change – genuine change, life-altering change.

If ever there were a people who loved their nation, this land is where they would be found. Our rich soil has undoubtedly produced the most devoted, albeit fatigued, populace that has ever walked this earth. Despite death, poverty and conniving politicians – Guyana’s spirit is still very alive and finding an outlet in so many of its citizens.

This beautiful patriotism is so stirring that it moves me beyond words. It is similar to the feeling I had when my son was first placed in my hands and I looked into his eyes and saw my own future full of faith, full of trust. This is not a feeling that can be feigned, sincerity can be read in the eyes and unmistakably the eyes of the Guyanese people are filled with expectation and hopefulness for their beloved country.

This steadfast devotion is currently moving so many to action. The fog is lifting from the minds of the Guyanese people and we are starting to see clearly what is required of us by future generations. The future demands change. And we are decisively ready to give Guyana the change it exacts from us.

Recently a marketing company undertaking research for a potential investor took a poll of about 1000 Guyanese. It is standard practice to examine the political, social and economic climate of a country before deciding whether an investment in that region would be a wise one or not. I was slipped the results of this poll and the statistics undoubtedly show just how much Guyana is ready for change.

These results were not a product of a presentation for or against any particular party, nor did the poll ask leading questions that would provoke a biased response. The questions were straightforward and the results are very interesting.

The poll showed a significant increase in support for a Third Force movement over a period of time when asked the same question, “Now if a national election was held in Guyana tomorrow, would you vote for the PPP/C, the PNC/R, a so-called Third Force, or one of the other parties”? In fact, the Third Force started out with a significant 14 percent and gradually grew to a high of 24 percent.

What makes these results even more noteworthy is the fact that the most recent part of this poll was conducted in May of this year and up until very recently the Third Force has been nothing more than prospect being considered by some hopeful patriots. Just imagine the possibilities if this movement really does get off the ground and people start to rally to the cause! The people of Guyana could finally take back our nation and build a thriving and stable society with the ability to compete on a global level in areas such as education, economics and quality of life.

It is certainly difficult not to be optimistic when considering the possibility of Guyana breaking free of the chains that hold her back from her potential. It’s is almost as if hope just starts bubbling up without notice and before you know it you are swept away in a wave of rosy anticipation.

Further, when the poll asked, “From what you have seen or heard, overall would you say you approve or disapprove of a “Third Force” in Guyana politics”? – there was a whopping 44 percent who said they would approve and 34 percent who were still unsure. This is clear indication that our population understands that we must take our nation back. Also, my gut tells me the hesitation felt by some of those polled would not be as high now as it was last May and that many would indeed now approve.

The momentum has definitely started and this thrust could very well instigate the defining movement that initiates the long awaited turnaround we have so desperately sought for decades. This is a people’s movement by a nation who seeks advancement and progress in the face of stark poverty.

My enthusiasm about the prospect of a Guyana governed with the people’s best interest as the primary focus is simply un-containable. I have a passion to see my motherland positioned to embark on a better way of life. This vision is obviously shared by many others as well. We all have a vision of a Guyana free from political intimidation, censorship, dictatorship and poverty – and this is a vision that is very close to being realised.

Perhaps it is time to call for the Third Force to start meeting with the people in their communities. It would be a sign of support for the movement and a celebration of the bright future that is knocking on Guyana’s door. This would be a demonstration of our determination to move forward after decades in the wilderness – after decades of stagnation, political fighting and racial tensions.

There can be no compromise for failure, no compromise for incompetence and no compromise for a government that does not serve the people – but instead rules the people. We are ready for a government that will drill for oil in the Essiquibo and takes care of the police and armed forces by paying them well. We have set our sights on what a new Guyana can mean for our children.

It is time for the removal of the stagnate and impotent government of our failed past. We will no long allow any Guyanese to feel marginalised or inferior. We are all brothers and sisters of Guyana regardless of race or religion.

With the mighty thunder of our voices, the resolve of our determination, the strength of our will as Guyanese, the support of our families overseas and the fervour of our young generation, we will take back our country and we will overcome. We must and we will. Guyana, our precious Guyana, awaits our triumph.

Guyana is no better today than five years ago

It is standard practice in a democratic society for the people to periodically review the administration chosen to run the nation – this is election time. At that review, the administration is then either reinstated or replaced based on its performance during the time it held office.

There are several factors taken into consideration at these reviews. These factors can change from one election year to the next based on the issues the people feel are important during that point in history.

Some pertinent factors remain static, such as the financial state of the country and whether the administration was able to improve the standard of living for the people during his term. Other factors are fluid and can change at a moments notice.

For example, although George Bush cannot be re-elected as president because of term limits, his party will no doubt be judged on his performance during this current term – which includes an ongoing war and an unforeseen natural disaster that highlighted the administration’s current inability to deal with sudden catastrophic events.

The people’s assessment of day-to-day politics as well as the unforeseen events will determine whether the current political party will continue to hold office or be tossed out and replaced with another party viewed as capable of attaining the desired goals of the people, which brings us to Guyana and its current political climate.

When the question is asked, “Is Guyana better today than it was five years ago”? – what is the reply? Surely one cannot dismiss the obvious improvements such as the renovations done to the airport and the major road repairs and expansions. These are indeed significant improvements that cannot, and should not, be ignored.

However, historically the review of the government by the people has entailed a more far-reaching probe into more than just the infrastructure of the nation. To be sure, these improvements to our infrastructure were needed and long overdue. However, the sewers still overflow, there is no bridge to Berbice (as promised) and we still lack decent roads to connect the city with the hinterland areas of our nation.

Moreover, there are also far more pressing issues that have simply gone untouched under the current administration. The illiteracy rate in Guyana is an embarrassment, the educational system is deteriorating even more every year, crime is still rampant causing the people to live in relentless trepidation and, most importantly, the country is still overwhelmed in excessive poverty and corruption infiltrations almost every part of our government, law enforcement and judicial system.

These are the issues that will be considered at the next election. Will the people judge the current administration as competent and re-instate them for another term? This is a rhetorical question, in that I cannot possibly see how this could possibly occur.

Guyana does not need a government that is simply competent – she needs a government that is extraordinary. We need a government that has the ability take us from this sad state of disrepair into a crime-free, poverty-free existence.

The World Cup event, due to be hosted by Guyana in 2007, highlights an issue that demonstrates how crime and corruption in a country is directly related to the economic state of a country. The fact that our people are terrorised by criminals everyday is sad enough, but when one looks at the bigger picture, crime has an effect on the country that has far greater implications.

As mentioned in a recent KN editorial, the UN recently conducted a study that explored links between crime and development. The study said, “Africa has a serious crime problem, a key factor in its seeming inability to grow out of poverty and fully join in the global economy.” Stating that investors shun areas ravaged by violent crime, Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Antonio Maria-Costa, said the study showed, “African as well as foreign investors looking to put money in the developing world put their funds elsewhere, such as Asia, for fear of financial and property crime and corruption, undermining economic development.”

The study also noted, "When asked about obstacles to investment, African business leaders rank corruption highest. Corruption is also believed to be behind the large bureaucracies and endless red tape that characterise some African business environments." Another glaring piece of information said, “Africa's justice system has fewer police and judges per capita than anywhere else in the world, leading to low conviction rates so criminals remain free, and the continent is increasingly becoming a transit area for drug traffickers.”

In other words, crime and corruption prevents economic growth. With this in mind, it is no wonder Guyana, a country rife with crime and corruption, has seen no substantial or sustainable economic growth since its independence from Great Britain.

The crime and corruption that ravages our nation has a direct link to economic instability, so it is time to clean up the crime by starting with cleaning up the corruption. Once the corrupt politicians are out of the way, we will be able to clean up crime – which was many times a product of the corruption in the first place.

We need a new government with viable solutions and an implementation plan for policies and practices that will help Guyana develop into a successful and thriving country on par with its neighbours and the rest of the world.

Given the failed state of Guyana and the miserable collapse of the old system, it is quite apparent that a new systematic approach is essential to infuse the country with life and vitality. It is time to toss the old system and enable a new government to present proven methods for the recuperation of the economical, political and the social structures of our country. Though some of these methods may be new to Guyana, many are established techniques that have helped other developing countries reach their full potential – and can help our country to do the same.

We cannot shy away from these new techniques, even if they seem alien to our previously established views and customary ways of conducting business, politics, etc. Remember it is the old system that has brought us to the brink of chaos. It stands to reason that a new system can only help us recover from years of atrophy in a vegetative state as a society.

Are you ready to toss the old system and give Guyana the opportunity to flourish instead of flounder? Can you get past the years of racist politics and embrace a new way of government? Guyana, hopeful Guyana, awaits your reply.

Hope is Brimming in Guyana – New Force a People’s Movement

I can see the PPP cronies shaking in their boots even as I write this column. No one can possibly deny the strength of this “Third Force” or “People’s Movement” as I call it, that has been brewing for the last few months – or the fact that so many are taking it seriously a viable means by which to fix our nation’s broken political system.

The irrefutable undercurrent of this group is sweeping the country so quickly that, despite the current administration’s attempt to pretend it doesn’t really exist, it seems Guyana may not be shackled by the “existing political evils” choice for very much longer.

The “Third Force/People’s Movement,” which must be made up of many players including political, civil and people who are looking for change - the key to the success of this movement - will make significant inroads in proving itself to be a group for the people. It is not simply an opposing force to the current administration and their failing policies, it is an opposition to status quo mentality that has crippled our country economically.

However, what must be the most disturbing aspect about this group for the two political mainstays of Guyana has got to be its racial make-up and refusal to pit one race against the other to attain (or maintain) political power.

It is not often that a small country like Guyana is afforded such a life-altering opportunity like this one. In fact, it couldn’t have come at a better time since there are already signs of the old and deadly form of election time fury sprouting up. Another very suspicious crime wave is once again instilling fear in people’s eyes and a desire for retribution in their hearts.

Oh that the nation could see how obvious this type if activity is and require the resignation of both political parties so we can start over from scratch. Surely there is not one Guyanese who is naïve enough to believe their party has clean hands. No, there is blood dripping from hands of both parties…Guyanese blood…spilt in a selfish quest for power.

If this blood was sacrificed for a bright future of unity, peace and prosperity, then perhaps one could some how justify such a loss of precious life. But each administration produces nothing but more poverty, more racial separatism and a future of little hope for our children.

Indeed, we cannot say that we are “One People” or “One Nation.” We have been torn asunder by hands stained with blood – the same hands that steer our nation! When we stand by those who are guilty, the blood is then transferred to us and we become just as guilty as the tongue that ordered the death. We cannot let it be said that we are One People of death or One Nation of blood.

We will all, most certainly, share the same destiny – but what will that destiny be? More death and blood? More poverty and hopelessness? This is the choice we must make. Unless we choose to stamp out the fire of hatred instilled in us by these dogs of death, we cannot expect to rise to a destiny of greatness.

And so here we are, presented with the opportunity to chisel a new future and a bright destiny. We finally have an out. We finally have a choice. This “Force” is our chance to take back our country and to mould a destiny of our own choosing.

Not since 1992 have we seen a concerted effort of this magnitude. Though it is still in its infancy, this Force has garnered enough support to build a noteworthy momentum. It seems the people of Guyana finally understand that it is necessary to fix the car prior to selecting a new driver – and they are ready to align themselves with a group who has the type of potential they desire.

It is high time we were given the occasion to choose a group of leaders who have proven themselves in the areas of business, community and leadership. The days of voting by race, which is nothing more than closing our eyes and pointing with the hope of picking the best eclectic oddball from a group of clueless oddities, are over.

The “Force” is bringing together the best minds of the country to work together for the good of all Guyanese. The racial barriers and preconceived notions that create factions instead of unity are for those who wish to remain in the past.

Guyana wants to move forward and it is obvious that the PPP and the PNC do not have the same objective. So the people are gladly tossing aside their misplaced alliances with stagnate politicians to embrace a new wave of political fervour spawned by righteous indignation.

More and more Guyanese are turning their faces away in disgust from the putrid politics of the present and past. Our votes cannot be bought anymore. Our hearts can no longer be provoked by words tainted with racial hatred. We refuse to lift a hand against our neighbour. Our minds will not be swayed! Listen closely, you merchants of hate – we want our country back!

This rousing transformation is changing the way we view each other and our country in general. When we take up the struggle to regain control, we also shed our tattered justifications of victimisation and embraced a new approach to life. The New Force is exactly what we needed to infuse just enough courage in us to want to hope again…to believe there is still a promising future for our beautiful nation.

Our destiny is shared, but now it is bright. Our future is dazzling because it does not have to include the current political rulers. The PPP has 15 years to prove themselves as leaders, and preaching they really need 28 years to continue to do so, because the PNC had the same. Instead they have proven that they are crooked and impotent. Now is the time to bellow it from the highest mountains of Guyana - Our future belongs to us!

This is a new day for Guyana. The sun has set on our dismal past and a brand new beautiful day dawns on our land. The sun is shining brightly and smiling down on us with pride because it knows one day very soon, one glorious and magnificent day, we will finally say Guyana is a land with “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”!

Guyana, from the crashing waters of Kaieteur Falls to the tip of the steeple atop St. George’s Cathedral, awaits to celebrate this glorious day!

Warning! Dictatorship is Creeping into Guyana!

By Peter R. Ramsaroop

There have been so many free societies throughout history that have succumbed, oft times willingly, to the dictatorship of one man. We have all studied such historical events because it never makes a bit of sense why an entire country of intelligent and capable people would voluntarily lay their down rights as citizens and put themselves at the mercy of a single person.

This is a phenomenon that should be thoroughly explored by all Guyanese since we are at a crucial juncture of exactly this type of occasion in our own country.

One such example we have studied is that of the fall of the Roman Republic to Julius Caesar’s sovereign rule. This is indeed an interesting example of how a country, overwhelmed with gratitude for a long-awaited time of peace, feels so enamoured and indebted to a leader that they want to give him full reign over every aspect of the country.

In the case of Julius Caesar, he won the trust of so many in Rome that he could easily take control of various sections of government one by one without as much as an eyebrow being lifted in protest. He had the confidence of the people and, regardless of their freedom loving representatives who warned them of the dire consequences of the situation, they kept sneaking crowns on the head of Caesar’s statues to let him know they wanted him to be king.

And king is what he would become – or rather an Emperor, since that was more pleasing term in the ears of the Romans who detested tyranny and loved their Republic. However, this misplaced trust resulted in the end of the beloved Republic and the reign of Emperors until the fall of the Rome.

The situation in Guyana is very different than this Roman example in that we have not been in war with anyone but ourselves – yet there is still no peace or prosperity in Guyana. We have no reason to feel indebted to this would-be-king who has brought no reprieve from crime, poverty or racial division. In fact, our country is presently in a state of confusion and on the brink of chaos.

This is the other, more commonly used, method to sneak a dictatorship into a free country. Saddam Hussein is a modern day example of this method where fear is used to goad the people into submission to the dictatorial rule. This is a ruthless technique that silences opposition in any fashion deemed necessary and governs with a strong hand. This type of dictator also tends to be more concerned with selfish ambitions like attaining power and money than with the citizens of the country.

This is the method of dictatorship that is tiptoeing its way into Guyana. Fear is rampant and the people crave peace and prosperity. This condition, created and sustained by the very one who would-be king himself, places Guyana in a position perfect for the picking of any budding tyrant.

Our country is weak, beaten down from years of lack and lawlessness, and seeking a saviour from our incessant despair. I beg you fellow countrymen, do not turn to dictatorship for help. This is not the answer for our woes; it will just bring even more anguish into our already pathetic existence.

Some may say the political watchdogs of our country are just being oversensitive, but that is the same approach taken by the naïve citizens of Rome before they lost their freedoms forever. In fact, let us examine this subject, based on recent events, to see if one can actually draw a correlation with past dictatorships and what is now occurring in Guyana.

What are some steps taken by a latent dictator? One of the very first measures taken is to squelch the citizens’ freedom of speech. A perfect example in our own country is the silencing of Dr. Walter Rodney by previous forces of dictatorship. But a good dictator will go much farther than that. The outlets for this freedom, such as television stations and newspapers, will be targeted. These outlets will be shut down or intimidated into submission to the controlling despot.

Have we seen this sort of behaviour in Guyana recently? Yes. Overwhelmingly. A television station was shut down for speaking out against the government and newspapers, as well as citizens themselves, are being sued for voicing their opinions about the administration. I think we can safely say this step has been marked off the list for impending dictatorship.

Another step on the road to domination is to control the educational institutions. It is vital to attain the loyalty of the minds you want to dominate – especially if these minds are independent thinkers who buck the notions of tyranny. If these freethinking minds cannot be acquired, then they must be eliminated. Once again, this was a method employed by previous dictatorship when it denied Dr. Rodney, a brilliantly free mind, employment at the University of Guyana.

Another pungent modern example of this step to domination was in 1989 when the government of China, in an attempt to silence about 100,000 protesting students in Tiananmen Square, sent in the military to take care of the situation. What were the students protesting? Inequality and government corruption. They simply wanted a return to the socialist values of equality and the communist government just wanted them to shut up. The result was a death toll numbering in the thousands.

Can we see the controlling hand of a tyrant in Guyana? As a matter of a fact, just this week we were enlightened about a situation where the government chose to step in and impose a Vice-Chancellor of its own liking on UG against the protests of the University of Guyana’s wishes.

Certainly, there can be no doubt in anyone’s mind that the current administration is attempting to control the minds of the academics of Guyana with the end goal of national domination. Anyone who comes to any other conclusion is just as naïve as the Romans who forfeited their freedoms out of gratefulness – not fear.

However, there may be a portion of the population who can actually see this creeping dictatorship and view it as an opportunity to advance monetarily or to further gain political/social power. These people need to realize that dictatorship is loyal to no one as is evident in tyrants like Saddam Hussein who killed even those who were closest to him if he had the slightest inclination of disloyalty.

These are strong correlations that can be drawn from the last few months to prove that Guyana, unless she fights tooth and nail against the looming storm, is in fact on its way to another era of dictatorship under the current administration. What can be done to save her? We must speak out. Students, speak out! Mothers, speak out! Fellow countrymen, speak out! Do not allow Guyana to fall prey to the hungry eyes of tyranny. Guyana, free and liberated Guyana, awaits your reply.