Dear Editor,
The ruling of Justice Sandil Kissoon that the teachers’ strike was “lawful and legitimate” and that the government’s decision not to pay the teachers for the days off the job and to stop deducting union dues on behalf of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) is unconstitutional is a major contribution to the evolution of the country’s jurisprudence: social justice and the rule of law in Guyana. His landmark ruling has once again exposed the ruler’s hostility to democratic practices, the rule of law, and the separation of powers between the Judiciary and the Executive.
The government’s decision to appeal the judge’s ruling is a clear indication that the rulers are committed to continuing their oppressive approach to the nation’s teachers and public servants. And by extension, the African community. Jagdeo, Ali, and Nandlall’s anti-working-class mentality is a shameful betrayal of the late President Cheddi Jagan, who undoubtedly is restless in his grave. He must be concerned that those in charge of his party and his legacy have become the most anti-working-class rulers in our modern political history. And at a time when the country is blessed with oil money. At this moment their present commitment is to the rich and powerful. Using the political support of the Indian masses to achieve the domination of Africans whom they feel are a threat to their political aspirations- total domination of the country and its people. The nation’s resources are being used to perpetuate the formation of a capitalist class loyal to the rulers. Like all dictatorships, it is just a matter of time before their oppression and repression will become generalised with disregard for race, colour, or creed.
This May Day I will be marching with the militant teachers and their leadership in celebrating their struggle and victory against the “machinations” of the rulers. Workers must organise themselves to shout down the rulers and hail-up Justice Kissoon the newfound “hero”. It is criminal for the government to appeal the ruling and keep in place the repressive measures. Judge Kissoon captured it beautifully, “The teachers lifted their voices and they asked for bread and they were given stones”.
I understand my country well. There is a prevalent notion that Indians have become so politically polarised that few are willing to use their authority to act rightly, often due to fear or racial solidarity. This is part of our reality. When Indian actors display courage and integrity in areas of national importance, we, as activists and leaders in the African community, must boldly recognise these actions as principled, not opportunistic. By doing this, we contribute to fostering racial and political unity among the masses. It is our duty to support our professionals when they challenge authority, regardless of which party holds power. As an African activist, I feel it is my responsibility to publicly share my views on these issues in our divided society. Previously, my observations drew the ire of the regime’s newest propaganda chief, and I anticipate a similar response now.
I will introduce some realism into this discourse that may make many in the PPP’s hierarchy uncomfortable. Consider-ing the PPP’s known history of vindictiveness towards teachers and public sector workers, who are predominantly Africans, and given the racial and political realities in the country, Judge Kissoon has once again acted in a way that, intentionally or unintentionally, has contributed to upholding the dignity of the Indian community, which has suffered since the demise of the Jagans.
Our teachers and their union leadership must be prepared to take action to force the implementation of the court’s ruling. The court has done its job, it is time for the workers to make good on the court’s ruling.
Yours sincerely.
Tacuma Ogunseye
