-Will we ever, ever enjoy `civilized’ electricity?
So who are “PPP People” – mentioned in today’s lead caption? Two generations ago People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Oldsters would declare that they would “Vote Cup” or “Vote Cheddi”. Sometimes those old-time diehards supposedly recognising and knowing only one political institution, would announce voting for “de PPP.” DNA wasn’t spoken of in those fifties to seventies. But it was an automatic racial tribal loyalty-instinct. Safety in numbers after the fifties multi- racial PPP splits. Though rustic, Cheddi Jagan had his own charisma, charm and persuasion when the bulk of his support eschewed analyses, issues or open-mindedness. Those were “PPP People” then. Strictly Cup and Cheddi.
During and after Forbes Burnham’s Iron-Fist Electoral Rule (1964-1985) the PPP easily retained its majority base. Out of office, out of “power.” PPP people were now more “educated” – (UG, Trade unionism, Religious, Party Political Education and a Common Enemy – the PNC) – a powerful Party magnet ’til eventual electoral victory in 1992 – assisted by James Earl Carter – America’s most successful Ex- President.
