Dear Editor,
We often jadedly assume that those clutching the reins of power will only glibly address the very real and exacting challenges facing the average citizen, on any average day. Usually, in the developing world it is easier to feel this way because everyone knows that resources are scarce and well-intentioned politicians are scarcer.
However, yesterday marked an astonishing moment in national politics that was impressive in scale, scope and intent. The President, along with the Vice President announced sweeping measures to address the stark financial reality the country’s citizens find themselves in, amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and after a months-long national malingering that occurred post-election. What was remarkable about the series of actions announced was that they deliberately, directly and methodically targeted poverty alleviation in what is still a poor nation. There was no avoidance or attempt at obfuscation or distracting fluff in describing the stark but desperately needed financial and social relief and support the Government was prepared to provide.
When politicians step up to speak, it is not unusual for the general populace to be somewhat skeptical about what is to be communicated. Because inevitably there always seems to be some sort of quid pro quo. That was not in the least bit evident in what was conveyed yesterday. As expressed, the elected officials appeared to have not only heard the populace, but have also viscerally experienced the pain they were being consumed by. The effort on their behalf appears to be a genuine; and aims to immediately address this pervasive national anguish.
In beginning his remarks, there was also an instant and outright condemnation of the brutal slaying of two Afro-Guyanese youth. No attempt was made to paint an ambiguous picture, to cast doubt or to lament that we should try to look at it through the lens of the slayer. A horrendous crime has been committed by person (s) who acted with impunity, out of hate, anger and pure evil. That the nation was verbally reassured by its leaders that this gruesome crime will not go unpunished should provide some comfort in otherwise unsettling times.
Moreover it is anticipated that instances of horrific and deadly violence regularly visited upon victims of domestic violence and children will be so immediately and comprehensively addressed by motivated law enforcement.
There is a great deal of hopeful optimism in the notion that the government is for all Guyanese. More so when its actions and deeds reflect that it has both heard and seen those that it governs; and possibly, empathizes with their pain.
Yours faithfully,
Scheherazade Ishoof Khan
