In leadership, example is better than precept

Dec 01, 2020 Letters

Dear Editor:

The newspapers give daily updates on the Covid-19 virus cases. It is alarming to find the soaring rise and spike of occurrence in the general population, especially in Guyana with a relatively small population.

People usually listen to their leaders for guidance. Unfortunately, leaders in most countries have failed. They have not been boldly and resolutely tackling the problem from a preventative perspective. Countrywide campaign: down to earth billboards, posters, fliers; broadcasts with megaphones, in addition to TV, radio, and internet, constantly, repeatedly and regularly, could have, should have been going on aggressively – a neglect not only in Guyana but also in other countries like the U.S. Now we are closing the gate after the cattle escaped. And waiting optimistically for the vaccine; fiddling while Rome burns!

Significantly, I find it very disturbing and disappointing to observe President Ali and President Santokhi and the first ladies without masks on two occasions during President Ali’s visit to Suriname.

Leaders should lead. Being human, they would sometimes slip, as humans are wont to do; and being both humans and leaders, would respond to respectful correction with appreciation.
It is an imperative that leaders lead by example – always and in all ways. There should be no exception. People generally follow their leaders, and do what their leaders do. Example is better than precept.

Yours truly,

Gary Girdhari