Dear Editor,
The word ‘epitome’ means a standard or typical example. In Guyana, Dr. Jagan was considered the epitome of a communist leader due to his simple lifestyle and moderate means that were in alignment with those of the general population. On the other hand, Mr. Burnham lost the support of the masses by becoming the antithesis of a true believer in socialism. His lavish lifestyle and the lifestyle of Mr. Green compared to that of the population at the time created a lot of resistance to many of the PNC reforms, policies and initiatives that were being undertaken. This led to poor implementation and a general lack of progress during the latter years of PNC governance.
Today, the risk of a repeat of the errors of the past being committed by the PPP/C is also becoming evident. The excesses of some ministers pointed out by the new leader of the opposition, the uproar over corruption, the extravagance on display at government functions and the lavish lifestyle of key members of the party have shifted the disdain once bestowed on the PNC to this new generation of PPP/C leaders. It is quite unfortunate to see that the hard work, continual struggles, and the strong foundation laid by the Jagans now trampled upon and destroyed by those in the party that have lost touch with the struggles of the general population.
New leadership that remains rooted in the principles upon which the party was founded must help restore the integrity and credibility of the PPP/C. The party must remain dedicated to the upliftment of the worker. Who within the party will become the epitome of what the PPP originally stood for? Only they can save the party from going further down the same self-destructive and hypocritical path of the PNC.