Dear Editor
POLITICAL leadership is aspired to for many reasons. For some, it is for purely selfish and anti-national reasons, but in time, these charlatans are exposed; they are tested by events that herald a call and commitment that goes beyond mere talking.
For others, it is about being rhetorical; a constant flow of repetitive language which they have developed the ability to deliver, especially verbally, in the hope of convincing whoever may be their followers. They too will fade, for they cannot produce any practical works or contribute to the national cause.

The real leader is one who is tried, tested and proven by the love of country. His/her cause is associated with that of his/her countrymen/women, and their genuine desire for change and solutions towards improving the way they live, so that their livelihoods are better secured, and those of their children better assured for future continuation of self and country. It is never about the grab of power for nefarious ends.
Even in times of uncertainty, this type of leader will show leadership of the highest calibre, which must be of inspiration, rather than one that will engender the perpetuation of division, of fear and of great apprehension because of historical circumstances.
Many states within the international community do have such problems that have in many instances engulfed their respective citizens with catastrophic consequences. The selfishness and grandiose dreams of this leader type is not only individually selfish, but ravenously ambitious with the obsession of power.

This type of leader is very dangerous; since all and every means at his disposal will be utilised for the quest for power. Even when opportunities may be present for a solution, there would be the frighteningly dishonest bell of denial, for the sole purpose of continuing and maintaining an environment which suits his anti-national design.
Such a leader would rather reduce his country to ruins, and his fellow citizens to frightening levels of destitution, rather than work together with others for the better good of all.How can any person present himself as a national leader, with such a sole-mindedness that is inherently self-centred, and power-crazed, but which has destructive portents for his compatriots?

This is not even pretence at patriotism, to say the least; but a skewed and distorted understanding of national leadership and a dangerous misrepresentation of this noble quality that is the main characteristic for any genuine national leader.
Any political leader who refuses to make the interest of his fellow citizens paramount on his list of priorities, and who refuses to work unselfishly for the alleviation of challenges that arise, not only betrays their trust, but also his country.

Guyana is in the midst of a seminal challenge, with regard to the “right- sizing” of the sugar industry. What has been witnessed thus far is a defined culture of leadership from the political opposition that leaves much to be desired, because of its grave misunderstanding of what leadership in times of national challenge means, and its insatiable lust for power. Many a leader has been defined at such seminal moments; and have therefore fallen at this most crucial moment, doing great harm to themselves, and bitterly disappointing their followers. The PPP/C and its leadership should be cognisant of this well-known pitfall.
Regards
Earl Hamilton