APNU/AFC should stop indulging in “opposition for opposition’s sake”

Dear Editor,
How we live our lives and treat each other, plus our cherished values and reputation here in Guyana, are symbolised in the image of our country.
This is something the newly elected Leader of the PNCR must understand moving forward: if you don’t respect others and disregard our democratic principles, other nations will not respect you.
Regrettably, prejudice has existed since the beginning of humanity, and is a learned behaviour we internalise from what we’re taught by our parents, those we admire, and our environment. Plus, if we’re honest with ourselves, we all have inner prejudices and things we dislike.
What makes us honourable is looking for the best in everyone, and treating every individual with respect, tolerance, and compassion, instead of searching for their flaws and mistakes they’ve made. Acting out our prejudices to disadvantage, degrade, or physically hurt someone is irresponsible and inexcusable conduct. My sincere advice to the PNCR leadership, who feels unjustly treated, angry, and vengeful, is to “be better, not bitter”.
We must work together to build this country of ours.
National unity requires people who are prepared to accept democratic principles that govern all democracies, instead of greeting electoral defeats with burning, looting and beating of opponents on the streets, or spreading propaganda.
It is time for the new PNCR Leader and his executive members to stop the “obsession” with Vice President Jagdeo and start dealing with the principles of national unity. “National unity must be based on principles. It can’t be based on personality and personage. It must be based on principles, and must to be done in the context of all Guyanese.
The new PNCR leadership must now acknowledge the importance of national unity as a fundamental ingredient of Guyana’s future prosperity, dating back to 1966, at the time of independence. So, first on the agenda of the PNCR new executive is to have their party leaders and supporters prepare to abide by the rules of law while accepting the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government. They must prepare to abide by the constitution of Guyana.
There’s no denying that our PPP/C Government has made some mistakes in the past, and still have many imperfections; however, there’s enough evident to show that our country is stronger and more prosperous by so many measures than it was before the PPP/C came into office on August 02,2020.
Guyana is stronger and more prosperous than it was six years ago under the previous APNU/AFC Administration. Almost every country sees Guyana as stronger and more respected, and one of the best countries to invest in today under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government.
I regret that we all can’t erase the injustices of our nation’s past, regardless of how many statues we remove, streets and buildings we rename, presidents we replace, or constitutions we rewrite. Although it’s wise to learn from our past, it’s imprudent to carry a bitter grudge and dwell there.
Instead, we must focus on the present, and work together to build a better future for every Guyanese. The PPP/C Government presently is on that path, so join us.
Most importantly, we must conduct ourselves as honourable Guyanese who demonstrate respect, compassion, and tolerance for each other, regardless of our ethnic diversities, cultural differences, contrasting opinions, religious beliefs, political affiliations, and past histories.
It is time for the APNU/AFC to stop their well-intended protesting and grievances during the National Assembly with their irresponsible behaviour that dishonours our nation and disrespects hundreds of thousands of fellow Guyanese and our cherished beliefs.
Seeking to silence others who disagree with their opinions demonstrates dishonourable conduct. One must find responsible and prudent ways to direct attention to the injustices you seek to address.
There is no doubt that our laws are only as good as the character and integrity of those who enforce them. Fortunately, the overwhelming majority of our Police officers and judiciary officials are exceptional, and do an outstanding job, selflessly serving our communities and courageously keeping us safe each and every day under stewardship of Honourable Minister R Benn.
However, what is most important is making and keeping our neighbourhoods safe, and for us to eliminate prejudice starts at home, by setting a positive example for our children to emulate. Be a dependable and ethically responsible parent.
Always remember that the greatest gifts we can give our precious children are our love, our time, our encouragement, our support, and our guidance; all are free, irreplaceable, and last a lifetime.
On Aug. 28, 1963, Rev. Martin Luther King said: “Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice.”
In honour of his legacy, we must take responsibility and seek ways to eliminate prejudice, keep our neighbourhoods safe, and make Guyana a great place for Guyanese. We must never forget the indomitable spirit and patriotism of our ethnically diverse people, which remains our nation’s strength.
I continue to call on the Opposition to join with the Government and let us build this country together. Guyanese of every walk of life expects our PPP/C Government and the APNU/AFC Opposition to “work together” in the face of “this unprecedented pandemic”, as I request the Opposition parties to swallow their pride and get behind the Government and stop the criticism that has no merit.
In the national interest, it is time for the Opposition to engage constructively with the PPP/C Government, and stop indulging in “opposition for opposition’s sake”.

Sincerely,
David Adams