Dear Editor,

THERE are many things in Guyana that became normalised under the PPP regime of 23 years. They made Guyanese feel that it was normal not to have traffic lights, so much so that today, people see it as a bother.

They do not like the order that it brings and aligns them with, to the extent that they try at every opportunity to avoid traffic lights. PPP made going on a work-related trip seem like a holiday to many public servants. PPP made it appear like a duty-free concession is a luxury rather than a utility (as duty-free are given in support of the functions of your job).

PPP made fast money seem trendy, and killed meritocracy. PPP tried to get rid of good police officers in favour of those dishonest and repugnant ones. PPP made it seem like the government was doing you a favour to provide basic utilities if you or your community were not supportive of their government. All of this to say that it is clear why systems, processes, and time are given scant regard at this juncture in Guyana’s development. PPP made public goods look like private giveaways and privately-owned.

They normalised these things. Guyanese today are so confused and amazed to know they have a right to the national patrimony like every other person. PPP made it seem as if those certain professions, jobs, and activities are determined by criterion other than being a Guyanese and having the capacity to deliver. Many instances of corruption by the regime are now being rehashed on the Internet. Only to realise that that was years ago, but people are only now questioning it; never before.

PPP got people in a confusion, as they’re now try to change their image and be the champion of corruption, which is now lower than it was in 23 years, despite still not being eliminated. PPP shields its members by having the General Secretary rant, but putting their presidential candidate to have civil conversations either with himself, or with those who are to parrot their propaganda as to suggest to the public they are the bastion of civility, trust, honesty etc. But of course, let them get in the seat, and you will see all the familiar faces. Let them get in the seat, and it will signal your approval for them to rule with duplicity, unhindered by the public utterances, or the quest for equity and justice.

Regards,

George Williams