Dear Editor,
The PPP’s refusal to participate in celebrating Guyana’s 49th independence was a slap in the face to President Granger’s offer of an olive branch to unite Guyana. And despite the refusal not being a surprise, it was nonetheless disappointing. Many Guyanese were hoping that the PPP would rise above their usual divisive politicking and show solidarity on this auspicious day of Guyana’s independence. Alas, it was not meant to be; the PPP instead chose to boycott the national events and travel to their stronghold of Berbice to continue their racial incitement.
Hundreds of PPP supporters greeted the leaders when they arrived in Port Mourant. Many carried placards with demands such as, ‘We want a complete recount of the ballot boxes.’ Some placards demanded the firing of Dr Surajbally of Gecom, some made claims that the election was rigged while others stated that APNU+AFC was an illegitimate government.
Amidst all this, the PPP leaders took to the stage and began to whip up the crowd into a frenzy. “This last election did not reflect the will of the Guyanese people”, ex-President Ramotar told the crowd. “You voted for the PPP/C, but we did not get our votes counted, but we have a history of fighting for freedom…our freedoms were taken away in 1968 when elections were rigged and we had to struggle then, as we have to struggle now…we have to struggle once more for democracy in our country,” he said, reinforcing the themes written on the placards of the crowd.
Mr Ramotar’s, comments were like red meat to the crowd and they became visibly energized. These were people, who though misinformed, truly felt cheated and their opinions were being confirmed by their leaders whom they trusted unequivocally. What Mr Ramotar was doing was the equivalent to lighting a match in a crowded room. It was done with reckless abandon and no regard for effect it could have on our nation. One has to question if that is the deliberate intention.
Yours faithfully,
Berkeley Van Bowen
