Dear Editor,

It is with some sadness that I read of the government reaction to the allegation concerning a minister.  Under the previous administration of the PPP, it was understood that the policy was deny, deny, deny, admit to nothing.

It was hoped, and indeed certain acts seemed to indicate, that the present PPP administration would be less arrogant and more open to criticism.  For example, the reply to the allegation could have been: “We have noted the allegations made in the press concerning the affairs of one of our ministers.  The government is unaware of any misconduct by any of its ministers, and would take a serious view of any such conduct.  In view of the allegation, there will be an internal investigation of the matter, and, if there is any cause, further action will be taken.”  That is, not deny, deny, deny.

Instead of this, we get talk of “yellow journalism” and of “a concerted plot to target personalities.”  Apparently one must not dare to speak ill of the Gods, and a “free press” is only okay if it does not question the policy or actions of the governing party.  Keep up the good work, Stabroek and Kaieteur.

However, the other lot are possibly just as bad.  Look at the postures of the parties which all promise efforts to unite in the interest of Guyana and not personal or party power.  Why can we not have a Speaker named already so we can move forward on the reforms all the parties promised?  APNU have a strong case with candidate Backer, a possible first female to hold this substantive post.  Yet APNU already have the substantive post of Leader of the Opposition.  So, looking at it in a balanced way, possibly the only choice is Trotman of the AFC?  It will be interesting to see the outcome.

Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)