Dear Editor,
2020 has been a year to forget, but one that we will always remember. Our peoples and economy were disjointed; mentally and physically beaten and broken by the “humanopolitico” virus that was selfishly unleashed by those seeking aggrandisement and personal gratification post the March 2020 elections. And, to add salt to our wounds, the prevalent COVID-19 pandemic, which brought death, lockdowns, economic instabilities and anxiety, made it even more challenging. As the New Year dawns upon us, under our new leadership, Guyana is prepared for a new beginning.
With renewed hope for happiness and prosperity, we prepare to bid adieu to 2020 and ring in the new year.
In this respect, we, the Guyana Islamic Forum for Education, Peace and Religious Solidarity, the Electric Mosque’s Presentation of the Teachings of Islam, in association with the Universal Peace Federation – Guyana, take this opportunity to extend a Happy New Year to His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali and family, distinguished members of the Government, the Opposition, and all our Divine brothers and sisters in Guyana.
We take this opportunity to remind our fellow citizens that there are silver linings. Silver linings – as in ‘new learnings’ from a challenging year – that could be golden opportunities as we enter 2021. We hope that, with sound management and administration, our resources can be handled sustainably, thereby creating a multitude of opportunities for improving the lives of our people and modernising our nation like that of a First World country.
Further, we take this opportunity to call for the following:
1. A plan, according to which, in 5 years or so, a national annual stipend is given to all Guyanese from our oil funds.
2. Free university education for all Guyanese.
3. Subsidized tuition for private schools.
While we all know that 2020 has been difficult, we must recognise that it has taught us that if we remain resilient, our well-being will improve. The pandemic has taught us that we are all in this together. It taught us to embrace, and then to adapt. In this regard, we urge all to continue living as one human family under God, or as “One People, One Nation, with One Destiny.”
Happy New Year! Here’s to better, happier, safer, and healthier days ahead.
Sincerely,
Roshan Khan Sr
