Dear Editor,
I wish to voice my support for Mr Robert Persaud’s candidacy as president of the republic should he aspire to that position. It is my view that having been privy to the inner sanctum of the presidency in his capacity as Liaison Officer, and because of his excellent leadership abilities and hands on approach demonstrated in the discharge of his duties as Minister of Agriculture, coupled with his patriotic disposition, this seasoned, buoyant young man at the helm of government could ensure that the dynamic nature of development is maintained, thus providing for continuity of the salient programes initiated under the astute leadership of President Bharrat Jagdeo, who was once considered too young, only to evolve as our “Champion” of the earth, among other causes.
By now it is a foregone conclusion which party will win the elections in 2011. The PNCR does itself an injustice in allowing the retention of Robert Corbin as leader which disallows for adequate familiarization of the masses with its candidate prior to elections. The AFC has also just lost some of its appeal with Raphael Trotman’s withdrawal from the co-leadership. However, given the state of affairs as obtains with the PNCR, there will be significant gains for the AFC at the polls, hence the further erosion of the PNC’s support base following the departure of Sherwood Lowe, Vincent Alexander, James McAllister, et al.
It follows logically that whosoever is nominated to the presidency by the PPP, the civic component of which has been subsumed under the PPP proper, will inevitably be elected President, much to the delight of an overwhelming majority (in ballot terms) of Guyanese.
I sense the number of contesting parties will be drastically reduced also, testimony to the fact that Guyana is resigned to its fate of being supportive of the PPP and trusting its stewardship. This is notwithstanding the difficulties we have endured, though cognisant of the tremendous strides made thus far. Yes, mistakes have been made, but such is the nature of governing, I would rather move forward than step back in order to restart.
It would be to our advantage that the services of Dr Jagdeo be enlisted, vis-à-vis the prime ministership, a position in which he can offer guidance to Mr Persaud, whilst ensuring the continuity of the salient programmes he would have initiated and policies adumbrated, which in turn will permit a President Persaud the latitude to implement his own programmes and the time to craft others.
Two presidents both progressive on one slate? This is a formula for further progress, methinks.
Yours faithfully,
Lancelot Wills
