WE as a people must never escape from the fact that the Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is truly a professional and patriot. As the Chief Tax Man and income earner on behalf of the Government, neither he nor any Tax Chief anywhere in the world will ever be loved.  The fact remains that he is dynamic, instrumental, focused and laden with ideas to make his Commission most professional, while helping in the development of our country.
I too had my problems with the gentleman, as it is the same with every Tax Chief, they are not usually satisfied with those who are in the system, and always want more.  Well, while it pained me and made life difficult for me in the past, the respect for wanting to earn for the Government and people is his mandate, his job description.

I disagree with many things, including aspects of the National Insurance, which is not his mandate, and Value Added Tax (tax), but while I publicly disagreed, and publicly quarreled with the Commissioner-General, in which I made it clear that I fear no human, but am one who respect appointments and the law, and will comply always.  I may disagree, I may protest, but comply I will.

Some people also complain about his outbursts publicly at times, and his temper.  I wonder when one has such a magnitude of responsibility and politicians, with citizens breathing down his back, what is expected at times.  It must break his heart when he is trying to collect and be firm with the public, demanding the honesty of the citizens of this country; while his people steals and disappear, as we have seen at times.  However, we have seen when he catches them; the full force of the law is unleashed.

If memory serves me right, I recall, that nearly a dozen Custom Officers were charged and placed before the courts, with careers destroyed and lives obviously, just because a corrupted businessman used the officers, and then went against them as witness in a plea deal.  I understand the rationale for the reasoning, but wished it was the other way around.  The businessman’s life is fine and cool, and the stolen billions are his to enjoy, while the officers life is left in a state of limbo.  The officers knew better and should have done better.

The Kitty Masjid scene:  When I got wind of the fact that that Mr. Kurshid Sattaur, as a Muslim brother, with company of respect to others, formed an ad hoc committee to manage the affairs of the Kitty Masjid, I felt relieved.  It called for a tough person, as the former Assistant Commissioner of Police, Bro Ousman Ali who was Imam, and also President.  Kitty Masjid, according to my inquiry and investigation became a free for all, and some found they could make money through thievery.  The positive brothers I spoke to are happy with the input and action of Mr. Kurshid Sattaur.  It was necessary.

Personally, I as a Muslim and one who tries to be most disciplined, welcome Mr. Sattaur in the management and control of the assets of this Masjid.  I wonder if Muslims are not ashamed of themselves when they have to run to the court to settle their affairs.
I found those who run to courts are the ones who are wrong and tasted the sweet of power, they usually want to hold on, through deceit, deception, corruption, conspiracy and evil ambition.  With the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana, the Guyana Islamic Trust, and the Guyana Islamic Movement of Peace, the Guyana Islamic Forum for Education, Peace and Religious Solidarity are there. Why could one or all not be called in to mediate and end the dispute?  Some Muslims love to shame themselves and their religion, the Religion of Peace.  Shame on the court mongers and anarchists, wanting tribal rule to enrich themselves! From my information it has nothing to do with rule of law or order, it is a money thing.

I just have the feeling to note this great man’s contributions to this country.  Has he been given one of the highest national honours this country can give? If not it should be his!