THERE is a given that people in public life have influence; of course, some more than others. In that context, there is no denying that political leaders have influence. The impact or range of that influence has grown significantly over time from what’s considered to be traditional to this modern age of multiple platforms. Social media handles, including Facebook and Twitter, have allowed for once unimaginable scope of reach.
In this modern era, it has become increasingly easier to communicate in real time to the masses including areas once unreachable. This easy facilitation of vital information has positively impacted almost every aspect of life, from early warnings of impending natural disasters to breaking news to live events, all accessible from a handheld device. Like everything else in life, there is always the other side; the negative side; in this case, the spewing of misinformation.

Obviously, it’s not about the means to facilitate this real-time communication, but the intellectual authors shaping the narrative; specifically, misinformation. While there is a plethora of examples to cite, one just have to look at the most topical issue over the past year; the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Given its newness and evolving impact, one may be compassionate to the absence of holistic understanding as critical research continues.
That feeling may, however, not be reciprocal towards those who capitalise on their influence to pander to section of the populace in a seeming deliberate manner to compromise efforts by peddling misinformation. From the onset of the pandemic, the protocols of wearing a mask, sanitising hands and social distancing, were globally made known. In many ways, this is an example of effective modern day messaging through the various communication platforms.

It has become a global mantra and it’s difficult to pinpoint persons who may be unaware. In the early days of this new pandemic, people generally adhere to the guidelines. With a lack of understanding, trepidation was rife, giving rise to much untested “remedies”. This in itself might have opened the door to be easily influenced, especially by those with the power to do so. With some world leaders touting invincibility, no need for mask and pushing alternative interventions, many succumbed.
As time progressed, this led to the current position of the many anti-vaxers with regard to the COVID-19 vaccines. This is exclusive of those with genuine reasons for not taking the vaccines. That is understandable. What is not is those who have no credible reason for dissuading others from taking the said vaccines which are intended to save lives and mitigate the impact of the pandemic.

In some instances here, hypocrisy is glaring given that some who are influencing against taking the vaccines, already took theirs and ensured family members are similarly safeguarded. That unambiguously suggests that their objection and influence against the vaccine cannot be based on the vaccine itself, but other motives; ulterior to say the least. Given what is playing out in some parts of Guyana with regard to anti-vaxers, it speaks to deliberate political intent to derail the ongoing efforts to safeguard Guyanese from the devastating impact. All across the world, countries and entities within are implementing measures to protect their people against COVID-19.

Guyana is no different and those who are bent on opposing such measures cannot be seen as having the best interest of the Guyanese people at heart.
With protests and an indication of more to come, there can be no ambiguity as to what the real intent is. The fact that those leading this effort are either members of the current Opposition or affiliates, speaks volumes on the misuse of influence; if only that could be channeled to bolster the efforts to combat the pandemic.
Interestingly, some of their associates have discreetly found ways to be vaccinated. That is commendable and can be seen as quiet defiance of the influence wielded to frustrate the process. Imagine the impact if it is done openly.