Dear Editor,
I have often decried the negativism and extremism that seem to have become the normal nature of the contributions of most letter-writers and columnists who express their views in our national media.
Notwithstanding this, I also believe that this type of expression must have sprung from people’s feelings of hopelessness in the political situation, and a common belief that the administrators of our nation seem to be forging ahead with their own programmes unmindful of what a large proportion of our population believe should take place, and the fact that they should be allowed to participate in the decision-making process, if only by being given the opportunity to communicate their opinions on the various issues.
I am therefore reminding those in authority that, as long as what they are doing will affect all of us, no matter how worthy this may appear to them, then they have the obligation to convince all sections of our populace of the efficacy of all projects on which they intend to embark, and try to get a consensus on all matters political. This may mean bending backwards in many instances, but the ability and willingness to go the extra mile towards compromise and cooperation are prerequisites for any party that seeks to head our affairs, and this approach can only result in improved relationships, and thus pave the way for development.
I have suggested before that in each administrative entity some system should be instituted that is geared specifically towards an open-minded reception of the questions members of the public may ask concerning any issues of which the authorities have control, so as to open a channel of consultation and receipt of people’s suggestions and queries. This would of course also serve to lessen the antagonistic manner in which people express themselves in the various media, and must lead to an atmosphere of cooperation by all concerned.
Yours faithfully,
Roy Paul,
