Dear Editor,
As persons continue the examination of the relationship between Sithe Global and Nigel Hughes within the context of conflict of interest as the Company Secretary of Amaila Falls Inc and a leader in the AFC, we must also look at it in the wider context of what it means to society.
Nigel Hughes came to the political fore in 2011 and has created an impact on the young and those desirous of change. What has now unfolded has seen a man who by his subsequent action is setting the tone for a change in behaviour by resigning from political leadership, an act that must be seen as lifting the political bar. What Mr Hughes has done has never been done by anyone who holds public office in this government and he must be commended.
In examining his decision it need not stop at him, and we must hold Messrs Bharrat Jagdeo, Donald Ramotar and others to the same level of probity.
It is obvious that some who today have zeroed in on Mr Hughes were obviously silent, and even enabled government actors who were involved in other issues of conflict of interest, inappropriate behaviour in managing the state’s resources, transgressing the laws and violating the citizens. There is enough evidence in the public domain of tax waivers/concessions and high offices being given to friends and family of the PPP, but many remain silent. This is primarily because they are afraid that state power can be used in an illegal manner to destroy them.
Many ignore the fact that a government that fears its people is a government that governs best, and they have become captive to the thinking that a people must fear its government as government continues to trample them and plunder the nation’s resources. Let us use this opportunity to take back our power which is being abused by our politicians. A failure to hold each and every one accountable as we seek to do with Mr Hughes today can contribute to some section of this society interpreting this matter that right and wrong or acceptable and unacceptable behaviour is not universal but premised on personality or political association.
The passion being brought to the Hughes’ issue must be the same as that carried to the executive, all parliamentarians, politicians and public officials.
Let me reiterate that Mr Hughes in stepping down from office has set a new standard for this society. Let us all in going forward require every person, similarly spotlighted and the evidence provided, to emulate Hughes and apply the same level of consistency to ensure they comply if they do not do so willingly.
Nigel Hughes has been making a contribution to the society and while he has as of now withdrawn from formal politics it should not see a withdrawal of his desire to bring about change in society. He ought to seek other avenues to fulfil his commitment to empower the people, because politics is not only confined to formal titles and offices, it is about people and people’s development and a niche can be found anywhere once the desire and commitment exist.
Yours faithfully,
Lincoln Lewis
