IN the midst of a national disaster it is always reassuring to see the national leaders visiting the particular affected areas, to offer solace and support. Monday’s conflagration at the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, once again demonstrates the fact about our national leaders, especially president Bharrat Jagdeo. It was very heart-warming to observe him, deeply concerned, speaking with the hospital’s CEO and other officials.
It was even more moving when he announced his government’s willingness to offer this important medical institution assistance. This is a magnificent and apt demonstration of a leader who understands his, and his government’s purpose and role. That this is an apt observation is due to the following:
Over the years there have been those, who have levelled accusations of an uncaring executive, as well as being unhelpful to the private sector. But the nation should know that president Jagdeo cares, and that he has demonstrated this humane quality on numerous occasions. Since the Mercy Hospital is privately managed and also a denominational institution, that has not influenced his decision of offering state help.
And as an aside, the private sector may have enjoyed one of their most fruitful and prosperous years on their financial balance sheets for 2009. This is happening during a year of the most debilitating economic meltdown, globally. Thanks to very prudent and sound fiscal management strategies on the part of the government, the private sector has been protected from the worst of the global economic contagion and has prospered too.
President Jagdeo has once again demonstrated true national leadership.