I wish to respond to the column by Mr. Freddie Kissoon in Kaieteur News of Wednesday, May 18, 2011 titled ‘Psychology, reality and Norway money.’
First of all, I believe that Mr Kissoon is so out of touch with reality that he does need some psychological treatment. Mr. Kissoon continues his unfounded attacks on President Jagdeo and the LCDS. In his article, he posits that ‘the Norwegians listened to the AFC and the PNC…’ and they ‘read people like Dr Bulkan.’ No doubt the Norwegians do listen to them but it is obvious their positions have not gained any traction or influence over how Norway responds to Guyana. Let us not forget the letter written by Bulkan and AFC presidential candidate Khemraj Ramjattan to Norway on the eve of Minister Solheim’s visit to Guyana in March 2011, asking Norway not to release any funds to Guyana. Well, the minister did come, and he did announce US$40 million in payments for Guyana’s performance under the Guyana-Norway agreement.
As regards safeguards, Mr. Kissoon should take some time to read the documents that are publicly available and on the LCDS website. Guyana and Norway agreed to these safeguards and are working with entities such as the IDB and UNDP to implement them. This is testimony to the openness, transparency and collaboration that has marked the LCDS process. This is why we have a multi-stakeholder steering committee, of which I am a member, overseeing the entire LCDS process.
Mr. Kissoon continues to attack our President, the Champion of the Earth and architect of our LCDS. What is your record of achievement Mr. Kissoon? Rest assured, President Jagdeo will leave office with one of the highest popularity ratings as a President and a record of achievement to back it up – not only in climate change, but financial management of our economy among other areas.
In closing, Mr. Editor, I would urge Mr. Kissoon to continue his readings on psychology – he may learn a thing or two.