Some things do not change

Dec 02, 2011 Letters 0

Dear Editor,
I had the pleasure of visiting Guyana for the first time in five years. I have to report that I was pleased to see great improvement in the infrastructure of Georgetown and environs. New construction, road improvements and traffic lights all add to a positive impression of the overall situation.
Some things do not change as much. In watching the elections campaign, I saw the two old line parties carrying on business as usual. The use of race and bullying as political weapons continues unabated. The abusive language from both parties but especially from President (Bharrat) Jagdeo was downright shocking and certainly not a credit to the people of Guyana in anyway.
The platforms of these parties reflect only the narrow needs of special interests or seek only political advantage in a very cynical manner.
I saw positive signs of hope in the presence of the AFC on the political landscape. The candidates and workers are visibly much younger and far more enthusiastic than those of the other parties. The ideas are solid and hold up to close scrutiny, but more importantly their vision of change that includes all Guyanese embodies all the potential Guyana possesses.
The AFC seems to be truly a viable alternative to the two old line parties. With leadership from the AFC, this could well be the time for Guyana to shine!
Tom Brook
Manitoba, Canada