I wish to put on record my great appreciation and respect for a gentleman of excellence, our Honourable Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Archibald Hinds.
Too many write glowing tributes and pieces when people pass on from this domain, but it is my policy that people be given the recognition they deserve while alive, kicking and even when still contributing.
Here is a gentleman indeed, an excellent one too, whom I will refer to as an equalizer par excellence. When the proper history of this country is written by the fair and professional historian, the name of Samuel Hinds will live forever, etched in history and hearts.
Is there anyone who can say they have seen a discriminatory aspect of his life, be it ethical, ethnic, or religious? When he attends functions of various religions I have observed him intently to see if he is merely political play-acting or genuine in his heart in his support and friendliness. I can say with pride and honour one can sense that personal inclusiveness etched in his heart, every time and everywhere. His camaraderie is genuine. It is so sad that people never honour their heroes when alive, especially us in Guyana. Look at what was done to Mrs. Janet Jagan during her life and struggle to help liberate Guyana and awaken us to freedom. Look at what was done to her by certain elements when she won the elections as President. Even Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, despite his dictatorial personality and methodology has made enormous contributions to Guyana, his vision and his infrastructure stands testimony to his contributions. I will not say much of Dr. Jagan or Mr. Hoyte for their parts are known. Laxhmi Kallicharran is another whom, little was given to in life, but one who was a giant. In death she was referred in the media as: Guyana’s Golden Child… I concur. My point is that as a people, we must honour and respect our heroes and not only after they are dead and gone, but alive. I will write of President Jagdeo some other time.
So honour your heroes Guyanese. Samuel Archibald Hinds is one of them.
Yours faithfully,
Roshan Khan
