Dear Editor,
A new day is birthed, the era of waiting commences, realising a slight shrivel as the feeling of tension gradually builds to erase the temporary moment of relaxation. A light wind blows across the mighty Atlantic Ocean to quell the unsteadiness and uneasiness that is agitating a frenzied uncertainty, yet, accompanied with a soft touch of chill, it befriends a reminder to remain calm. Caught between the sky and earth is this vacuum of space, flowing freely with air but empty. Such is the life in Guyana, sandwiched between COVID-19 and the election result, survival is enjoyable yet it is saturated with dormancy. Guyanese did not demand, request or are obliged for this unfortunate situation. But, we have passed this milepost and are now catapulted to the rear end of this trauma and have no choice but to sit and ride out this uncomfortable journey. There is no alternative but to tranquilise our emotions and control our thoughts and actions as we await the deliberations for what should be an obvious conclusion.
The inkling and urge to commence celebration and congratulation may be natural and intriguingly encouraging, but should be constrained and withheld because the nation wants to show impartiality and sobriety, especially the supporters of decency and honesty. Let no one be carried away either by influence or personality and pursue any path that reflects unrighteous and unethical behaviour but, be guided by a code of conduct that endorses an exercise in a disciplined approach. There will be no loser from the repercussion of the election but a winner in each area that stems from multiple fraternities. This is a time for not jumping the gun but to be cognisant of the current pressing issues; be conscious of the sensitivity of the situation; not to overlook the fact that there is an urgent demand for reaching out; extending a helping hand to the needy sister, brother and children and most importantly, abide by the law and be willing to support and help to maintain the stability for peace in the nation.
The country’s dream is to move on a righteous road; to fill the gap of equality, liberty and justice; to harmonise friendliness; to bridge indifferences; to unite a divided community; to remain impartial; to diffuse tension; to practice and preach one peaceful commonality; to reinstate nation building; to resuscitate a bankrupt economy; to destroy corruption; to curb crime; to encourage transparency and accountability; to interrupt complacency; to accept constructive criticism; to destabilise poverty; to solve the health issues; to control the COVID-19 problems; to invigorate a youthful drive; to remedy the employment situation; to recover control and revenue of all natural resources; to implement needed infrastructure; to revamp the education system from university to nursery; to review unmerited taxation; to review tax threshold and minimum wages for both private and public entity; to pursue the advancement and restoration of agricultural viability; to reach out to the divide; to indulge in inclusivity; to investigate fraud, collusion and criminalising of all destabilised elements; to eradicate prejudice and discrimination; to streamline effective and efficient administration; to promote cultural meaningfulness; to open the gate for remigration; to advertise the call for academics, intellectuals and professionals to return home to serve the nation; to balance all the disciplined forces; to instill fair employment practice; to be cognisant of priorities and conscious of insensitivities but, above all, not to follow the path that will once again destroy the umbrella of one people from one nation with one destiny but to widen the development of peace, progress and prosperity.
A nation patiently sits and waits with hope during the day after kneeling and praying in the morning and night, asking the one Almighty to guide the deliberators to bring an early end with only a justified, legal and legitimate conclusion that reflects the will of the people as they rightfully voted, counted and recounted with the world as observers, moderators, counters and auditors.
Respectfully,
Jai Lall
