Dear Editor,
G Ramdar (Jan 15) queried my view, including my name among a list of individuals and organisations, on “the delay in the selection of the Leader of the Opposition (LOO”).[1] I thank Ramdar for acknowledging my critical role in championing democracy and combatting electoral fraud in 2020. I do not particularly feel honoured to be included in that list of names, some of whom are discredited; several of them were involved in rigging. Some of them only came out against rigging and championed democracy in 2020 onwards when it suited their interests, when it would have personally benefited them.
I have been very consistent in fighting for democracy and against elections rigging in Guyana while a student in Guyana from 1968 and after my migration to study abroad in 1977 and continuing till this day. My work has always been and remains altruistic. Unlike others, I spent my life immersed in and committed to consolidating democracy in Guyana. I never compromised integrity for self-interests. I have never been opportunistic. I am pleased that democracy is thriving as a result of the work of Dr. Jagan, the Ramkarran’s, etc. and several others like Dr. Gopaul, Dr. Vishnu Bandhu, and proud to be in the company of those champions of democracy.
I do not support violations of democratic norms and principles regardless of the transgressor. I note the statements issued by the diplomats of ABCE countries and the government on the LOO. There shouldn’t be any delay in the selection of the LOO. The 29 members of parliament should meet and select their official leader according to precedent, norms, and conventions. I understand this will be done soon.