CALLING for peace across the nation, leaders of Guyana’s three main religions — Hindu, Muslim, and Christian — have expressed their concerns and are urging Guyanese, particularly the youth, to find their way closer to God.

In view of the recent tragic events in Linden, the reckless use of the roadways and the rampant lawlessness exhibited by certain Guyanese on social media, Pastor Quaicy Henry of Kildonan Village in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), exclusively told the Guyana Chronicle that both Guyanese and the global community must return to their scriptures and reaffirm their obligation to conduct themselves with integrity in society.

He asserts that while it is understandable for loved ones, friends and the community to experience hurt and anger, such emotions should not justify the destruction of public infrastructure and properties that benefit the same community and individuals.

Recognising the growing trend of intolerance, unkindness and impatience among some Guyanese since the COVID-19 pandemic, Pastor Henry said Guyanese ought to be grateful that they have a President and a government that are delivering to the people in every region across Guyana.

According to him, while it is understandable that the government is not perfect in all that they do, President, Dr Irfaan Ali has been leading by example through the development of infrastructure and institutions and the creation of job opportunities for the people of Guyana.

“We need to remember that we are smart individuals and we can fact-check what is being fed to us on social media by influencers and private individuals who claim to care for Guyana and its people.”
He continued, “As a pastor, I acknowledge my own imperfections and in light of the unfortunate accident in Linden involving the police officer and the young man who lost his life, we must remember that the legal system now bears the obligation for carrying out its duties, and it is not in the hands of ordinary citizens.

While I understand that people are hurt, frustrated, and upset, what I have a problem with is that seemingly in Guyana almost everything is politicised. There is a downward spiral trend that we are facing as a country and we need to get back to our churches, mosques, and mandirs.”

Furthermore, Pandit Ganesh Rampersaud of the Mon Repos Shree Satya Narayan Mandir also related to the Guyana Chronicle that, while he applauds religious leaders for their efforts in their respective institutions, he also believes that more can be done to bring Guyanese, particularly young people, closer to their religion and knowledge of their scriptures.

According to Pandit Rampersaud, prayers are encouraged not only to create a stronger relationship with God, but also to generate peace of mind and hold people accountable for their actions.

The pandit said, “I understand that we all are entitled to our own opinions, but that does not mean that we ought to be impolite and violent against each other.

Whether you are a Muslim, Hindu, or Christian, we all need each other to survive in society. I am calling on my fellow religious leaders to work with our people, especially our young people, and engage with them in their communities. Even if they are not attending places of worship, let’s remind them that they can make a difference and contribute positively to their lives.”

He also expressed appreciation for President Ali and his government’s commitment to the lives of all Guyanese.

According to him, President Ali’s actions are a true reflection of his character and his vision for the people of Guyana.
“We need to respect each other, regardless of race, the colour of our skin, and who we vote for. Guyana is developing, and this is the time for us to enjoy what our country has to offer while living in love and harmony. Let us stop attacking each other; we are better than this; we can do better than this,” said Pandit Rampersaud.

Additionally, the Imam of Meten-Meer-Zorg (East) Masjid, Halim Khan, shared similar sentiments as the two religious leaders, explaining that spiritual unity for the nation should be observed by all on a daily basis.

According to him, religious leaders should encourage and educate Guyanese in their places of worship to do the right thing and be kind to each other.

“We are blessed to be living in a country that is developing rapidly and one where our President is ensuring that he is catering to our every need. Yes, it cannot happen at once, but we can live as one through spiritual unity as a nation,” he added.