Dear Editor,
It seems as if there is some justification in the statement made by Raphael Trotman, co-founder of the Alliance for Change (AFC) which has now merged with APNU in its quest to remove the PPP/C from office.
Mr Trotman at a news conference opined that the PPP/C has two presidential candidates, viz, the outgoing President Donald Ramotar and former President Bharat Jagdeo since the latter is in the forefront and even challenging the opposition to debate. “He is overshadowing Ramotar,” Mr Trotman said, and APNU’s Joseph Harmon in substantiating Mr Trotman’s assertion said that Mr Jagdeo had requested a debate with his party, but he is being ignored. “I don’t want him to feel relevant,” Mr Harmon declared.
Meanwhile Mr Jagdeo is making statements which are damaging and embarrassing to the PPP/C. The latest is his press confrerence two weeks ago, where he spoke about comparing his cadillac lifestyle with the modest way of life of founder-leader Dr Cheddi Jagan. What is disturbing, is that it seems as if no one in the party’s hierarchy can muzzle him. Some say that they are afraid of him. If that is so, what is the reason for the fear?
Reports indicate that the PPP/C is divided about Mr Jagdeo’s high-profile involvement. Some feel that he should stand aside and allow President Ramotar and other senior party officials to be in charge, but there is resentment and the young former President wants to be in control. Supporters of the PPP/C in the diaspora who are realizing massive funds for the campaign, are also divided on the important issue.
The strong supporters of the PPP/C feel that Bharrat should not be allowed to speak on the platform and should not make public statements without the approval of the central executive. One supporter declared that if the PPP/C wants to win the elections they should ensure that Mr Jagdeo stays at home and more importantly, keeps quiet.
Yours faithfully,
Oscar Ramjeet
