Dear Editor,
A lot has been said about David Granger’s leadership and political skills, some critics were adamant that he is politically naive and too meek for the PPP. The fact, is I knew different. Granger has proven to be a most tactful, astute, mature and poised leader, who has demonstrated that he will go to the end of the road and to take all necessary and possible actions to ensure that the interest of Guyana and its people remain top priority. So when he announced to the nation and the world that he was prepared to talk with a most recalcitrant PPP/C regime some people thought he was “dotish” to engage in talks with this stubborn bunch, but he nevertheless stuck to his guns and allowed Ramotar to expose the PPP/C’s disposition towards dialogue. So Ramotar, at a gathering of Amerindian leaders, made the announcement that clearly killed all talks. Granger knew that once given time the PPP/C government would hang itself, and it did!
The next issue which demonstrated Granger’s genuine belief in putting country and people first was his recent announcement that he intends to continue pursuing the conversation of coalition, with the AFC. Some wondered why Granger continues to reach out to the AFC on this subject, since that the party has given every indication that it is least interested in teaming up with the APNU. However, Granger waited it out, understanding that he has not heard anything definitive on this matter from the AFC leader. So, less than 24 hours after Granger’s public announcements Khemraj Ramjattan, the leader of the AFC, boldly denounced such a coalition and passionately stated that he is against any such formation since according to him the AFC would become “dead meat” in any such coalition, Ramjattan has therefore, come full circle on the subject of coalition. It appears that the AFC seems to be all about protecting the party’s image and the ego of the leaders, as opposed to looking out for the interest of the people and country. It is shocking that some associated with the leadership of the AFC actually believe that the APNU seeking a coalition is reflective of some weakness on the part of the APNU! This kind of thinking, for me indicates a certain politically immature mindset of some of those who find themselves in the echelons of the party. To interpret a magnanimous and humbling political gesture which seeks to promote people and country first as weak is the silliest we can get.
However, again, Granger has proven to the world that he is no political joke, His humility and calm demeanour should not be taken for granted. Clearly, his strategy has allowed many to expose their true intentions which provides the people a unique opportunity to judge them.
Granger obviously knows how to allow a sinking ship to hit rock bottom. So, yesterday we woke up to the news that David Granger has declared that, for Ramotar to shut down the parliament and silence the opposition will make it impossible for the APNU and its leader to engage in any talks with the government. This is classic! In all his political engagements David Granger has demonstrated that dialogue in the political process is very important to moving any nation forward, but he has also demonstrated that dialogue forged by bullish tactics and hostility cannot be condoned in any civil and free society. So if the president thinks it best to shut down the, parliament, the main forum for public debate to coerce talks is the way to go Granger reminded him that talks will be halted. David Granger has emerged as a most tactful political leader in current day Guyana. I wait to see his critics and naysayers give him credit for his brilliant strategy and his genuine concern in nation building. Sometimes you just got to give credit where it is due! Kudos to you Mr. Granger and keep, keeping on!
In this period of high class political bullyism by the regime I will be looking to see all those so-called leaders emerge and step out of their comfort zone. This is time for grown folks politics and solid leadership, don’t hide behind the pen take to the forefront and lead on the streets. J
ust like Granger has his role to play, you also have your part to play. I call on all the civil society leaders, union leaders, business leaders, religious leaders and every other leader. A nation is in crisis, democracy is under attack, the people’s parliament is under threat it is time to take a stand! Time for grown folks’ politics.
Yours faithfully,
Lurlene Nestor
