Dear Editor,
NORMAN K. Browne, UK-based PNC/APNU political activist, makes a few enquiries in his letter, “Angry and anguished questions generated by a one-year-old dictatorship.” Well, I think I need to put things in perspective for this writer, even though I will not answer all of his questions, as most are seemingly based on a lack of information on his part.

First, he speaks of a ‘one-year-old dictatorship.’ Norman K. Browne was in oblivion during the post March 02, 2020 General and Regional Elections in Guyana. So, I ask him now, to name the people/parties who were opposing ‘fair and free’ elections and transparent counting/recounting. I also want him to answer on the issue of the present stand on COVID-19 issues, as against that of what obtained under the previous regime.

Let me point him to the March 18, 2020, edict of erstwhile President David Granger. On that day, Granger actually directed former Minister of Health Volda Lawrence, to remove, disinfect and destroy the personal effects, goods, buildings and any other article, material or thing exposed to infection from the disease. The minister was also ordered to prevent the spread of the disease on the seas, rivers and waters of Guyana, and on the high seas within 12 miles from the baseline, as well as on land. He stated that the minister “Diagnoses, prevent or check the disease, including the prohibition or restriction of movement of persons and public and private conveyances of any kind whatsoever within and to and from an infected area.” The language herein suggests an operation that defies democracy and promotes bullyism.  Imagine if this kind of talk had come from, or was coming now from the present Head of State!

Now, concerning “What sort of government turns on its public servants?” which I surmise is about the COVID-19 situation. I hope that you ‘get the drift’ shortly. You see, anti-vaccination drives are met with a number of choices here in Guyana, as is the case worldwide. The ultimatum kicks in when nothing works, not even a proliferation of scientific evidence that almost compels people to ‘take the jab.’ What happens? Boundaries have to be set. All over the world that is the case. Governments have a duty to protect their nations. That is why, beginning at the end of July 2021, U.S. Federal workers were required to sign forms attesting they’ve been vaccinated against the coronavirus, or else comply with new rules on mandatory masking, weekly testing, distancing and more. Just a few days ago, CNN news network started allowing only vaccinated employees to return to its U.S. offices, and in fact, fired three of its employees earlier for violating its policy.

Do I need to go on? I think not. I suggest to Mr. Browne and all who have issues, to take the time and examine issues before commenting.

Yours truly,
Baldeo Mathura