AN ADDRESS BY RAPHAEL TROTMAN AT THE LAUNCH OF THE ALLIANCE FOR CHANGE

IT’S TIME

Our friendship, the only thing that’s true, has stood the test of time.

They said we would never last,

But we followed our hearts and let God direct the path

Up against all odds

We were standing up against all odds

Trusting and believing in the miracles of God

Even if it seems to be so hard

To reach for the dream that is so far

never lose your faith

in God when you’re up against all odds

Life can take you through rough times

But still you will pull through

Hold on to your hopes and dreams

And there is nothing that you can not do

Up against all odds

We were standing up against all odds.

Today, marks a turning point not only for our own lives, but predictably, for the life of Guyana itself. Those of us, like myself, born on or around 1966 recognize that for the almost 40 years as an independent nation, our Guyana has struggled to find its feet and to unleash the latent, but yet extremely powerful, potential that we know exists in this land. So desperate is this potential to burst out that we can almost feel its vibrations, but yet it remains so elusive to us that we are wont to imagine that it is almost as mythical as Raleigh’s golden city of El Dorado.

Why This Movement is Necessary?

We have memorized, and have been mesmerized, by patriotic songs sung as children, we have mobilized to repel foreign threats, and we have girded our waists tighter and tighter from the time when a five dollar note was a pound to today when it has ceased to exist altogether. We see the empty gaze of hopelessness in the eyes of our brothers and sisters both young and old, and wonder what next? We see life becoming valueless and desperate. So desperate is the situation today in our beloved country, that bright, talented and promising youths, perhaps to escape the bullet, or the “big truck”, swallow sachets of drugs to gain a measure of security and social mobility.

The piercing cry of pain and desperation is best captured in the Rights of the Child “Express Yourself” survey which shockingly declared that 69% of our young people would prefer to live in any country other than Guyana, and in the recent Economist Magazine’s assessment that eight of every ten graduates from tertiary institutions in Guyana now work in an OECD country. We read of older men, long past their prime, having to survive by becoming night-watchmen whilst their wives and partners, once proud women, but now old and vulnerable, take to the streets to forage and beg for their next meal, and even of young girls being trafficked for prostitution and exploitation sometimes even by their own family members.

What an indictment. Who listened? We in the AFC have listened, that is why we are here today! We know that its time to stand ready to march by your command, to redeem and reclaim the soul and heart of this nation.

Today, just as it was yesterday, our indigenous brothers and sisters still have to wage a battle to be recognized and accepted as the first people of this land entitled not to handouts and prescriptions, but to recognition, and respect. There is something wrong here with the scene of Indigenous peoples protesting a Bill being debated in the National Assembly that purports to be on their behalf. Instead of listening, the ignominy is magnified by the unrelenting presentation of outboard motors, clocks and promises when what is needed most is acceptance and respect, and the right to self determination. We in the AFC sincerely believe that the equal place of the indigenous person must be recognized and protected.

In many regards, and most ironically, the future of this country lies in the delicate hands of our hinterland brothers and sisters. They literally have the power to decide whether in a few months to regress of progress. The simple admonition I give to them as I give to each of you here to day is “Think before you ink” I recognize the former calypso monarch our “VJ” as the as the author of these profound words. Who is listening? We are. It is time!

The East Coast of Demerara remains in turmoil, and those who reside there are likely to face even greater levels of crisis and instability in the coming months when the inevitable threat of the closure of the Demerara sugar estates- leading to severe socio-economic meltdown will become clear and present.

As a movement intending to address the concerns of the people, we would be remiss if we were to ignore the most serious incidence of crime now stalking the land. Recent statistics tell us that apart from the economic issues, crime remains highest as a concern amongst all of the people. No one is spared. In all its manifestations, criminal activity of every kind, be it murder or bribery, and in every place, whether high or low, must be condemned and suppressed. Crime, as we know it today, is in a state of evolution such that the lines of distinction between the simple crime, and low intensity conflict have become blurred. Ours has become no longer a situation of criminal activity to simply feed oneself and family but is progressing into a weapon in a socio-political battle. Experts have identified several triggers and accelerators of internal conflict which we are all advised to examine carefully. These include economic crisis, government violence, elite fragmentation, reform and political change, the demonstration effect and ethnic and religious tension.

Undoubtedly, Guyana at varying times experiences all of these characteristics. Given the high level of distrust, ignorance and hatred existing within the, it will not be an easy task to heal the divisions. Something however must be done. Statistics tell us that most Guyanese live in fear of being targeted as the next victim, whilst the others believe that the state has become repressive thus denying them justice ands fair play. We in the AFC intend to approach this issue in a very direct and dedicated manner.

We have had many reviews and proposals, all outstanding but unfortunately, these are seen in isolation from the bigger socio-economic, and even socio-political problems which we pretend not to exist. The solution to crime and conflict in Guyana cannot simply be the staging of high profile police/military operations with exciting sounding sobriquets. We must dig deeper to find complementarities to these operations. What good will be derived when we arrest every person in a village if we continue to ignore the root or aetiological causes of the restlessness within? What good will an operation be if it serves only to anger and alienate the majority of those whose support is needed?

There have been many criticisms of the police force and army of late and this is unfortunate. These institutions must be supported not only through the supply of materiel in the form of armoured cars and weaponry. We believe that the support of law enforcement operations must be supported upon several pillars if success is indeed desired.

Most importantly, salaries and conditions must be adjusted to take account of the complex and dangerous job to be performed if not, the dedication, diligence and demonstration of professionalism required, will be unattainable.

In addition, the judicial and criminal justice systems must be reviewed and reformed to meet the changing nature of the crimes we face today. The penal system must be modernized to ensure that felons are spared the time to plot their next heist, but find themselves put to work and reconstruction not only to rebuild their own lives, but also those which they have destroyed.

The legislature must march in time to the evolving trends in society by receiving the benefit of research and the views of the people. And most importantly, the communities that make up this failing state must be brought into the picture as stakeholders. This will not be achieved through risky schemes of swearing in supernumerary constables and outfitting community policing groups with the latest weaponry, but through the direct involvement of the people’s true leaders-the pastors, priests, pundits and imams, the teachers, and village elders.

Lastly, we in Guyana will never know true peace and prosperity until, and unless, we agree to take a serious look at our systems of governance. There is no escaping this reality which has haunted us from the date of our conception as a nation. Simply put, the manner in which government is administered in Guyana not only leaves much to be desired, but moreover, invokes a bitter and revengeful spirit into the midst of our deliberations and decision making processes. The process of constitutional reform must be widened and deepened.

We must engage in conversation with those prone to defy the authority of the state. History and example have proven that to ignore the problem is to court danger and crisis. To fight crime therefore, those in authority must not behave as the criminals but must function at a higher moral and legal level. Until such time that a National Security Strategy is crafted and operationalised, which takes into account all facets and causes of crime and unrest in this country, no number of ad hoc operations, no sentence to prison, and no lofty speech citing percentages and intentions will suffice. It is time for peace, security and stability.

In this regard, the recent detention of over one hundred persons, in refugee-camp conditions is a stark reminder that some amongst us are still prepared to operate as if we live in the dark times of Hitler, or in the bloodied streets of Baghdad. This is our Guyana and its people are in desperate need of strong, caring and honest leadership. Lawlessness must not be met with lawlessness, but with justice.

It is time for change! Our change is the key to unlocking of Guyana’s future. It is time for the Alliance For Change!

I ask, are we to allow the final sentence of death to be pronounced on us, or are we to mount a strong and united defence? Today, that defence begins, and the Alliance For Change is making a call for the mounting of a strong alliance to stand as a bulwark against the enemies of our time.

Today, 40 years after birth, we are growing old, bitter and cynical, with little hope left. We have become impatient and intemperate making utterances that are hurtful and unnecessary as even I have regrettably done quite recently. Like a spent arrow, the spoken word can never be recalled, but one should be able to say sorry. I understand that my erstwhile colleagues were hurt by my recent statements following my own personal loss and I now publicly express my regrets at the pain that I must have caused from reacting in anger. Within the structure of the leadership, membership and general supporters, are good people who did not deserve to be labeled criminals.

We agonize about our safety and wellbeing and stretch out our hands upwards praying for relief and salvation expecting no compassion, no relief, and no understanding from those who we elect to serve us time and time again. Simply put, the people and processes put in place to guarantee our wellbeing, safety and future, have failed us. If ever there was a time for something better than this, it is now. If ever there was time for something better than is, it is now. It is time for change.

All over Guyana people are telling us they are tired of the old line politics based on race, revenge and regurgitation. They know that there is much more that we can achieve as a people. They yearn for an alternative with the vision to make the next 100 years Guyana’s century. We in the Alliance with the support of the people and others will provide that vision and leadership to unlock the Gordian knot that binds Guyana and its peoples so firmly to the dark past. This is the vivid background against which this movement comes into being. Change is coming! Change is here!

What Is The AFC?

The Alliance For Change is not simply another political party, but rather a movement born out of a unique set of circumstances which brought those identifying with it today, together. We are hewn together in the same way as others are mobilised, by strong patriotic links forged in our belief in a better tomorrow. We do not present ourselves as the better group, but yes, we believe that we bring something different to the otherwise barren landscape. Today’s ceremony is not the launching of a political party but the birth of a movement of consciousness. A consciousness that says that we the people have had enough and want what is our sacred due: Respect, equality, prosperity and security. It is time!

The AFC Vision

The vision of the AFC is no different from the vision that Martin Luther King jnr. so brilliantly described four decades ago. In his words, are our words. His desires have become our desires. Those words are so appropriate for us today that they are worth reciting:

“I have a dream today. I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together. This is our hope.”

Our vision in plain and simple terms is to bring healing to Guyana; and the creation of a just, equitable and unified state ensuring that we move from being a struggling under-developing poor beggar-nation to one that is proud, self-sufficient and developing.

There is a story told of a few friends who, coming from different worlds sometimes hostile to each other, found themselves thrown together by a combination of fate and circumstances. These friends didn’t bemoan the disappearance of their habitats, but chose instead to venture out into the dangerous unknown fully cognizant that the road ahead would be filled with dangers and snares, but forever confident that with the help of God, their own skills and experiences, and the support of family friends and persons like yourselves, the end would be something marvelous to behold. These friends found enough goodwill and support upon which to get by despite all the odds and obstacles they encountered. After today, there is no turning back… It is time!.

Make no mistake about it, the there will be severe opposition, disappointment, attack some of which has already begun in the form of rumour, character assassination, and harassment. We will have to grit our teeth and persevere. Why? Because the nation expects nothing less of us.

In the recent past we have been referred to as “wishy washy rejects”, upstarts, dreamers, and opportunists. We expect that before this is over, we will be accused of every crime every declared, and every vice every practiced. To those who say we are rejects, we say, if you are believers, read Psalm 118 where you will be reminded that “The stone which the builders refused is become the headstone of the corner.”

For those who believe that it is sinful to dream. We, like Martin Carter’s dreamer “do not sleep to dream but dream to change the world.”

And to those who raise falsehoods against us, be reminded that life flows in circles and your own names will one day be called in shame. “The evil that men do lives after them and the good is often interred with their bones”.

Having walked around this country and listened to the voices of the people, we believe that what the people of Guyana want is the emergence of a new political consciousness which peels away the layers of old hatred and old wrongs, political recrimination, finger pointing, killings, corruption, mismanagement, and lawlessness…people want the establishment of a wholesome form of government.

The AFC intends to work steadfastly and relentlessly to bring this vision into reality and be a part of a movement for change. From where we stand today, the future looks better than bright.

Parliament

I believe that it is appropriate to address mounting concerns and heated discussion regarding my continued involvement in the affairs of the National Assembly. The people’s assembly I must add.

Now that the Speaker of the Assembly has given his correct ruling on the matter of my disqualification, I believe that the time is now propitious for the Leader of the Opposition and me to meet, as he has recently proposed, to discuss and decide as mature and responsible representatives of our respective constituencies, my resignation from the Assembly. I hope that he will keep his promise to meet and speak.

In the meantime while I await his invitation, I intend to keep myself gainfully, occupied with the people’s business by advancing the cause of public access to information, and accountability and transparency in government.

I have made promises which I intend to keep. In the immortal words of Robert Frost I say: “I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep…and miles to go before I sleep.”

Conclusion

In closing Madam Chairperson I wish to recognize the presence of everyone here and particularly in the persons of my friends and family. I thank my friends for their unwavering support of my decisions. I thank my parents for ensuring that coursing through my veins is the blood of the slave and the enslaver; the indigenous and the indentured. From this blood I get a fantastic view of the different nations that make up the wonderful mosaic of Guyana, and the ability within each to make a profound contribution to the restoration and development of Guyana. My parents taught me humility and gave me an understanding of who I am and what it is that I have to do. I have no apologies to make for who I am. Don’t blame me, blame them.

I believe that we are all blessed with unique gifts which we are expected to use to serve our fellow men and women. After all, what is the true meaning of life if not to be in service of others?

To my sister who traveled from Grenada to be at her little brother’s side –I can only say that I have never known a moment in all my life when you were not there for me. Last but not least, to my wife and daughters who have endured the dark side of politics, the constant fear which hovers silently because of my involvement and the hardship brought on by my life in politics, I say thank you for being there and I love you.

I thank you all and ask that you tarry with me for a little while longer. Your support is immeasurable.

Guyana has precious time left. We intend to change the way in which things are done in this country. As stated before, we do not consider ourselves to be better than anyone, or any entity. We expect that the electoral aspect of the entire movement for change will be forthcoming in a few months time and that things will indeed heat up. We are ready. We have noted the greetings, salutations and beckonings of those already at the starting gate and now after today, we can officially participate in the conversations that are so desperately needed in this country. We ask you to stand with us, to watch with us and for us to stand and watch with you, in defence of this country we call our green land of Guyana made rich by the sunshine and lush by your rains, set gem like and fair between mountains and sea; your children salute you dear land of the free.

I end with the words of celebrated reggae artist Buju Banton. These words are recited daily by children and adults alike in every depressed community and ghetto in this country’ and are harsh reminders of the life that hundreds of thousands endure, and of what lies ahead for us as a movement:

“I have been traveling all morning

With such a heavy load

Now its noon and I cannot afford

To put down this burden alongside the road

I’ve got to hold it, got to humble myself

Like a child Upon my face I’ve got to put on a smile

Make up my mind just to walk more miles

Because I know that

It’s not an easy road

Who feels it knows

Lord help me to sustain these blows.”

When the end would have come I am confident we will be sustained and delivered safely and triumphantly.

It is my pleasure and distinct honour to now invite my friend, brother and colleague Khemraj to present the other part of this presentation.

May God bless you, may God Bless the AFC, and may God bless Guyana.

I thank you.