TO those following the PPP Presidential nomination process, the decision had long been expected and the confidence reposed in Mr. Ramotar by the party’s central committee is well merited. Indeed, his overall credentials for the top job are eminently impressive.
Donald’s academic training in economics and political science has fortified his competence to handle the general affairs of the country, especially at a time when Guyana can benefit considerably from his refreshing, inspiring and innovative leadership. Profound insight, clear vision, calm temperament and a mind open to accommodate new ideas are indispensable prerequisites for a brilliant future of the nation. Mr. Ramotar is extravagantly blessed with these attributes. More so his undiminished zeal to cross new frontiers, to break with the past and set his sight on the horizon beyond are crucial to national progress.
Mr. Ramotar is an offspring of mixed ethnicity and has never revealed a slightest propensity for bigotry or preference in favour of any particular racial group. Indeed, would that not be antithetical to his gentle make up? Not even his most rabid detractors can allege discriminatory practices against this upright man! Being what he is, he easily and naturally finds comfort in any social and racial setting, always feeling the people’s pulses, assessing their needs and empathizing with their plight.
With a long and distinguished career in politics this man stands tall in stature. From his rather humble beginnings as an employee of GIMPEX (a PPP business entity) he entered political life in 1967. His impeccable work ethics and formidable skills propelled him to become manager of Freedom House. Using this as his platform, he accelerated his achievements with dazzling speed conquering academic, political and trade union territories. He was then ready to take on any public office assignment.
After PPP’s triumphant election in 1992, Dr. Jagan having meticulously evaluated the capabilities of Donald appointed him the office of Executive Secretary of PPP in 1993, a prestigious position many craved for, but few deserved. It was the first indication that he was on his way to a spectacular future. Following the departure of Dr. Jagan, he rose to the helm of the party as General Secretary a position hitherto held only by the Founding Father himself, a testimony to the faith people had in Donald’s capacity to lead.
So Mr. Ramotar is no novice to leadership responsibilities. His abundant experience prepared him to handle the complex and delicate matters of national and international importance, having been exposed to opportunities to address issues of similar nature. He is widely renowned for his tact, diplomacy as finesse in presiding or meditating in sensitive situations.
As a public officer, he is revered for his modesty and simplicity. He makes himself easily accessible to those requesting his service or intervention. His personality has been shaped by the fact that he originates from a distinctive rural setting in Essequibo where he imbibed the rustic qualities of a simple life. To complement this, he later moved to the urban environment in Georgetown. This added another dimension to his dynamism.
Having a taste of both sides of the world, he is keenly aware of the pervasive idiosyncrasies of each group and can easily relate to them. No one can accuse him of being alien or indifferent to their respective local cultural norms and practices. Claims of his suitability for the presidential office cannot be invalidated.
The PPP Presidential candidate is undoubtedly a man of immaculate probity and integrity, and a fierce loyalty to the Party, never in his association with the PPP had there been even a scintilla of evidence that he ever put in his personal ambition above the welfare of the party or the country. He was meticulously keen to keep his aspirations subservient to what is good for the Guyanese people.
Mr. Donald Ramotar’s eligibility and suitability to welcome Guyana’s new President cannot therefore be challenged. The country needs him to lead for another decade.
Good Luck!!