THE nation has once again witnessed the humane, concern of President Bharrat Jagdeo, when he answered the frantic pleas of the recently removed vendors from the Stabroek  Market square. The reasons for their initial removal are known and, therefore this is not the subject of discussion in these lines. This is the second time within recent months that the President – the first being the laid-off Barama workers – has intervened in what can be described as the threat to livelihood situation. I never doubted that the affected vendors would have sought audience with the President, and that he would have assented. A true leader he is. Make no mistake about this fact as it relates to the people’s perception of President Jagdeo: He has, by solid, genuine actions, built trust between himself and the masses of all ethnicities. He is trusted because he reaches out to the distressed, always ready and willing to assist and offer relief. He delivers!
It is as a result of this clear and undeniable perception/belief, that those vendors called on him, and he delivered, again; much to their relief and delight. 
This latest action on his part, demonstrates his abiding belief that everyone is entitled to an honest living, and that they must be allowed to do so, but within the confines of order, as he so stated to the gathering of vendors on Friday. He enunciated this fact late last year whilst visiting the Plaisance Market locale, especially relative to plans for vendors plying their trade on a proposed tarmac.
I am quite confident, therefore, that those vendors, hard working citizens that they have been, will adhere to the rules as spelt out by President Jagdeo, and that they will not disappoint him in their future endeavours.
I salute this great humane leader.