Dear Editor,
To say that I am justifiably elated as a senior citizen, when what I have privately discussed among my peers has been taken up by politicians, is an understatement. When ordinary folks’ thoughts and words are reflected in the pronouncements of the brilliant minds in our midst, tells me there is still hope. I am referring to an article titled ‘Committee of elders could be of significant benefit to Guyana’ -Trotman, Roopnaraine’ (SN, May 9). I am always heartened when modern-day politicians revert to ancient African traditions and practices in an effort to confront the evolving changes if the 21st century political construct. We must not fall prey to what is occurring in countries outside of Guyana, although the temptation is alluring, when their ideal is one of personal accumulation, and the good of the individual against that of the community.
Admittedly, we live in a technologically advanced world, where the dominant ideals are motor cars and iPods, etc, but we should as a nation strive to retain at least some of the ancient customs and values for our very survival. Even though I remain hopeful, our present political construct does not leave much room for optimism. Incidentally this concept in parts of Africa is known as the Council of Elders or the Council of Notables ‒ and it works.
Yours faithfully,
Lloyd W Davidson
