Dear Editor,
I watched on television the official opening of the new state-of-the-art Linden Hospital Complex, which was attended by the President, Prime Minister, ministers of the government, other government officials and foreign representatives, among others, and as expected Linden top functionaries, officers and other invitees.
The event as I saw it went well – bravo.
However, I need to make an observation in all good faith, and this has got to do with the selection of the Master of Ceremonies who was Mr Ron Robinson.
Now Editor, no one, at least not me, would deny or question the capability of the veteran radio broadcaster/and TV personality, Mr Robinson, to perform this function which he has done on countless occasions. But the question must be asked, wasn’t there anyone in this mining town who was considered able enough to fulfil this role as MC? Was there such difficulty – the devil’s job in finding someone? Come on, are we that lacking?
This event wasn’t one of a promotional nature by a business corporation or institution where it is customary that the MC is often the same individual who travels around taking command of the proceedings, with exceptions once in a while. I have seen time and time again the President with his entourage and foreign diplomats travel to other regions for various functions, projects, inaugurations, commissioning, etc, and the MC is a member of that community. This is fitting and also recognizes the community itself, even when the MC falls short somewhat.
But what I find somewhat uncomfortable about making observations like these is that one runs the risk of a twisted misinterpretation if they are not viewed with objectivity. Still I hope not, for it made me wonder: Was the magnitude of this occasion too much to merit a resident MC?
Well, if this is the way in which the community is perceived, then no doubt we are in bad shape indeed.
Yours faithfully,
Frank Fyffe
