I am appalled by what we have in this country for a political opposition

Feb 18, 2021 Letters

Dear Editor,

I must say that daily I am more and more appalled by what we have in this country for a political opposition. More specifically, the stalwart figure that pretends to be some semblance of an Opposition Leader. It is not even a running joke anymore, but a stale one that brings jadedness. I had promised myself that I would leave this column alone for the Lenten Season, and now I will have to pray for some more forgiveness; a real serial sinner I am.

As I look at the opposition, through its inspiring shadow of a leader, I cannot help but think that he is rather flummoxed about what the responsibilities and obligations of that significant and pivotal – if not, powerfully sensitive and crucial office – incorporates and must come to project day in and day out. I understand that the Vice President is not a sleeper, so consumed is he by the contours (what I call it today) of a certain kind of governance. On the other hand, what we have, from all appearances, in this country is a sleeper of an opposition, as best embodied in the form of the Opposition Leader. Formless, he is; contented, too, to let other people carry the weight. I refer to that media article where the Hon. Opposition Leader is beside himself with joy in letting Dr. Vincent Adams speak about gas flaring; that is, there is nothing left for him and his group to say (KN February 17). In the army that would be tantamount to dereliction of duty (gross and unprecedented dereliction), and a case for the stockade. As an indication of my utter disgust, I tender that the stockage is just too good for the likes of what we have masquerading here as an opposition from the leadership on down. I must wonder who they are dancing with and in which chambers. For clearly, what we have from the Opposition Leader is pure “nonsense on stilts.” It can be from that paltry and pathetic offering on the budget to gas flaring to oil in general to the PPP government’s increasingly blatant prowess and engagements with what is destructive to this country, and nowhere more so than how the PPP leaders prime the pump for financial crookedness starting from now.

As I share all of this, I take the opportunity to remind the Leader of the Opposition, and all citizens, that the essence of that role is not that of a monk (with vows of silence strictly followed); or that of belonging to a political harem (to not only not be heard, but not to be seen either); or to engage in self-consignment to the darkness and desolation of the outer wilderness, where the only communication is with the spirit world, or that of abandonment of the world of the living. To be clear, I have no use for an opposition that is only about reflexive objection and criticism for the sake of going through the motions, and leaving something for the record. But there is so much that strikes the brow and consciousness of the governance excess of an even more subtle and more cunningly skilled PPP, and with which is allowed to get away and flourish. Like the COVID-19 cash stimulus that creeps up by the billions. Like the firing of competent and clean public service professionals. Like the insulting treatment and standards meted out in parliament to the party’s representatives. No amount of financial collaboration could make right those insults to intellect and soul; indeed, to standing among peers. Clearly what we have today is a disgrace for an opposition starting with its hamstrung leadership, and one that grows more hobbled and helpless by the day. The Opposition Leader is not allowed to put himself out to pasture (step down and save face). The Opposition Leader is not permitted the extended bliss of unending long leave. If that is what is appealing, then throw in the towel and let ‘Auntie’ Volda lead the way forward. She is sure to be better.

Yours truly,
GHK Lall

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