Guyana Observer News

Peter R. Ramsaroop, MBA

I have felt the brunt of the government’s vengeance at me.  It seemed like everything I touched became an issue to them because I am not a supporter of their policies to overtax the citizens.

One just has to look at the 2009 budget and realize that the entire government is kept afloat with our tax money.  From their fancy houses to fancy vehicles, we are paying for everything, while we have to struggle to take care of our bills and families.

I am proud to say I am still standing and still believe in our nation can become a better place for all of us if we work together. I am not sure why the government is bent on targeting individuals, businesses and citizens. It seems they try in every way to create division in our nation.

Without saying too much, Guyana has two key leaders that shaped the nation in the early days, for the good and bad.  They were Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham.   We must stop this decisiveness in our nation. Let us give credit to both, and then let us move on with the future development of our nation.

I have become an admirer of the AFC for its steadfastness in keeping the agenda for reconciliation and change for Guyana.   It is very important for the government to stop the targeting. We all need to accept each other by first realising that we are not one people, but many people with one destiny.

OVERVIEW

INDIVIDUALS:
The recent targeting of Christopher Ram, one of Guyana’s most respected financial experts by Dr. Prem Misir is uncalled for.   Mr. Ram’s analysis of the 2009 budget is right on target.

I believe Dr. Misir’s contributions to Guyana can be exercised in other ways versus targeting key individuals in our nation.  He has proven his worth in other key areas. This is not what his role in government should be.

Over the last two months, hundreds of people have called my office complaining about the way they have been treated by the NIS office.
Many worked for years only to be told that their records have been misplaced therefore any claims cannot be processed.   The NIS office must go out their way to make sure the citizens are treated better.   It is not their fault that the NIS office has lost records. Most of these people are pensioners.

BUSINESSES:
Recently, a major businessman allowed me to put a sign on top of his building next to Parliament Building.  Within a day he said that the Minister of Agriculture called him to take it down, and then the next day he said GRA said it will send over inspectors unless he took it down.

The sign came down within a few days.  It was a great financial loss to me but I refused to take the businessman to court realising the vindictiveness that will be unleashed at him.

After the President’s remarks of the DDL Chairman, GRA inspectors scoop down on the company in a form of harassment.
Many regions in our nation have also felt the brunt of the vengeance since they are on the opposition side.  I have written on the $3M Bartica gets for all year.   Even a year after the massacre there, no improvement has been made in law enforcement and fire protection.  They are many other examples that can be listed.

SUMMARY:
The intent of this column is to ask the PPP Government to stop their vindictive nature of those that are not in sync with their policies.   Democracy allows for disagreement, and for constructive criticism.

Many of our suggestions and contributions can help shape a better Guyana.   One should not have to be a member of the PPP to contribute.
I am hoping that the AFC can continue to push for change and reconciliation.   The PPP Government must learn that they do not have all the answers and the people are asking for a broader government that can make their lives better. Stop being so vindictive to the people.

I believe that together we will give the children hope and the only way that can happen is if we demand change.  When opportunity meets potential the outcome is dynamic. When an intelligent child is provided a proper education, success is the only expectation.

Likewise, when a country brimming with this much potential makes its own opportunities and refuses to be held down anymore by the unseen forces of social and cultural expectation and dictatorial rule, the only outcome is success.

Can you see the same beautiful vision for Guyana’s future? What legacy do you want to leave the next generation? Guyana, the land of your fathers, a land lush and green, a land riddled with corruption and crime, a land with so much promise, the land you will give to your children, awaits our reply.
Together we will take our nation back.  Until next time “Roop”