Sunday, July 29 2012

THE EDITOR: The sentiments expressed by Basdeo Panday at Kelvin Ramnath’s funeral have been met with criticisms because it has struck a raw nerve. This marginalisation of leaders who have contributed to the development of an organisation, nation or community is prevalent among third world nations.

In TT nothing is said about the contribution of Cola Rienzi to the labour movement. The OWTU’s leadership has promoted Butler but remained silent on Rienzi’s contribution.

The same can be said of the PNM. The other leaders who have contributed to the political development of this country — CLR James, Ajodhasingh, Chanka Maharaj, Roy Joseph, Bhadase Sagan Maraj, Albert Gomes — are marginalised. As far as the PNM is concerned only Dr Eric Williams and Ellis Clarke are deserving of praise for the political evolution of the nation.

In India also, the Indian National Congress had lauded the contribution of Mahatma Gandhi and Nehru to the freedom movement but have “criminalised” those who suffered equally in the long struggle for independence but were not members of the Indian National Congress.

Many would rightly be critical of Panday’s comments claiming that “it is not the right forum” because too many of us are party to such “plunder and loot.” People who bask in others’ glory and achievements cannot stand for the truth. They are doom to a life of hypocrisy and dependency, living of the largess of others. What a pitiable existence! Mr Basdeo Panday needs to learn to empathise with such mortals!

DH Singh

Chaguanas