Dear Editor,
I refer to Mr Sasenarine Singh’s second item of correspondence (‘What was promised to the people should be delivered’ SN, June 9) on the achievements of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, under the stewardship of Minister Dr Frank Anthony. Singh juxtaposed his critique and latterly, his personal perspectives which were laced with emotional attacks on me, once his political comrade and colleague, with the policies, projections and programmes outlined in the last 2006 PPP Manifesto.
Editor, I had intimated that the ministry’s achievements, whether in sport or culture, included unprecedented (international) events not even listed in the manifesto. Both of us in our political and professional capacities at the ministry do not need to be ‘lectured’ to by Mr Singh on the election campaign manifesto being a “contract” with, or “road map” for the people. So too are countries’ constitutions, but even these are documents of aspiration and intent, and are rigid guidelines to be followed and upheld as long as sudden, unexpected exigencies do not require amendments for the greater good. So if it is determined that the nation’s food, (agriculture) health or education must take temporary precedence over promised sports complexes, that is how it must be.
Sasenarine Singh diplomatically salutes the work of Minister Anthony so far. However, I know that the Minister prefers to await the end of his tenure for a more sincere, collective assessment of his stewardship. Speaking for myself, I refuse to be drawn to the level of the former PYO member, despite his personal attacks on me. (I am the Director of Sport, not Youth).
Except to mention that I appreciate his admiration for Minister Robert Persaud, and yes, I am still ‘Jaganite.’ It is not I who have compromised Comrade Cheddi’s principles; I have remained to contribute right here, in Guyana, through thick and thin.
Mr Singh has had his moments of fame whilst attempting to denigrate or diminish one Minister and his ministry’s achievements so far. From his new home, he would do better to debate ideas and issues than to attack the messengers, who are former colleagues.
Perhaps he may go through the 2006 Manifesto to lambaste other ministries now. He has a right to talk and write, whilst we act and deliver.
Yours faithfully,
Neil Kumar
