Dear Editor,
Albert Bolo Joseph, the Linden businessman who succumbed to a gunshot wound some weeks ago, was never known to be associated with any political party. Like Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, I too have known Bolo for almost all my life. It is understandable if not acceptable for politicians to seize every opportunity during the elections season to look good and seek votes, even when there are grieving relatives or a community in mourning over the loss of a charitable and exemplary businessman who rose from rags to riches. It is not surprising then, that the government would have its ministers who benefited in their early years as workers and residents of Linden to be representatives at such a solemn occasion. Especially when one considers the way he died and where his funeral service was held. Lindeners have a culture of celebrating their outstanding sons and daughters who passed on in tragic circumstances. Mackenzie Sports Club is the chosen venue.
It is a known fact that Lindeners have often expressed the view that Prime Minister Hinds and Minister Robeson Benn have made no effort or shown any interest in lobbying their government to improve the livelihood of Lindeners in their impoverished state. Why would Prime Minister Hinds, in addressing the Linden community in mourning at the Mackenzie Sports Club, thank the deceased for the kindness and support he gave to the PPP/C office at Linden? This is insensitive and cheap politicking. To some, such utterances may just be loose passing comments. In international politics this would not be condoned without clarification on its intent. The media would only carry it to have a response to its justification. Opposition parties would have a field day. It is not only what was said but who said it. The solicitation of the sympathy vote is often subtle; by a presence, maybe, a tear, etc. Never by openly associating a non-political person or group in such a manner for political mileage. Prime Minister Hinds should now tell the people of Linden and the country at large what acts of kindness and support the late businessman Albert Bolo Joseph extended to the PPP/C at Linden. This is the elections season.
He should also tell the people of Linden what acts of kindness and support, since holding the higher office in the land, he has extended to improve their lot.
Yours faithfully,
Norman Browne
UK
