PLEASE point this final official response to Mr. Sasenarine Singh’s second correspondence with respect to his views on the achievements of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, under the stewardship of Minister Dr. Frank Anthony.

Singh juxtaposed his critique and latterly, his personal perspectives laced with emotional attacks on me, once his political comrade and colleague, against the policies, projections and programmes outlined in the last 2006 PPP Manifesto.

Mr. Editor, I had intimated that the Ministry’s achievements, whether in sport or culture, included unprecedented (international) events not even listed in the Manifesto. We – both in our political and professional capacities at the Ministry do not need to be ‘lectured’ to by Mr./Comrade Singh about election campaign manifesto being ‘contracts’ or ‘road-maps’ with the people. So too are countries’ constitutions, but even those are documents of aspiration and intent, rigid guidelines to be followed and upheld if sudden, unexpected exigencies do not require amendments for the greater good. So if it is determined that the nation’s food, (agriculture) health or education must take temporary precedence over promised Sports Complexes that is how it must be.

Sasenarine Singh diplomatically salutes the work of Minister Anthony so far. However, I know that the Minister prefers to await the end of his tenure for a more sincere, collective assessment of his stewardship. Speaking for myself, I refuse to be drawn to the level of the former PYO metamorphosed gentleman, despite his personal attacks on me. (I am the Director of Sports, Not Youth).

Except to mention that I appreciate his admiration for Minister Robert Persaud knowing that the minister once provided employment for Mr. Singh’s well-being before he (Singh) migrated and yes Sasenarine, I am still “Jaganite.” I have not compromised Comrade Cheddi’s principles by seeking the one time colonial master’s scholarships or now living in Britain’s domain. No, I have remained to contribute right here, in Guyana, through thick and thin.

You have had your moments of fame whilst attempting to denigrate or diminish one Minister and his Ministry’s achievements so far. We will not feed your new-found British arrogance or indulgence any further. From your new home, you would do better to debate ideas and issues – than to emotionally attack the messengers, who are former colleagues. Perhaps you may go through the 2006 Manifesto to lambaste other ministries now. You have a right to talk and write, whilst we act and deliver. Go prioritise your next critiques.
NEIL KUMAR