Dear Editor,
This is not an issue of party loyalty or politics. I am certainly not accusing Joe Harmon of being corrupt or of having benefited in any way from his alleged association with certain questionable individuals. But Joe was the man who allegedly prevented the Guyana Revenue Authority from properly conducting their duties with one of the companies whose CEO is allegedly associated with him. Joe was the man who arrogantly stated he owed no explanation for the ministerial pay rises. Then had to row back from those ill-considered remarks. The optics here are terrible.
A picture tells a thousand words !! The photograph in the private jet is hard to stomach for the many, many thousands of poor and struggling people who voted this government into office. People who placed their faith in the integrity of the new government. Joe Harmon should be mindful of the fact that first and foremost he is a servant of these people.
Let’s remember that we have two companies namely BK International and Bai Shan Lin under active investigation by SARU which has been tasked, inter alia, with recovery of state assets. Yet the CEOs of both companies can be seen allegedly associating with Joe Harman on a private jet !!! Joe Harmon has now become the news and is an unnecessary and unwelcome distraction from the important work of this government. It is vital for the restoration of faith and trust in our elected officials for the President to act decisively to ensure that this characterisation of one individual does not spread to encompass the whole government. How can the government reasonably make an ongoing case for change in these circumstances?
People have DIED so that this coalition government could come to power to bring positive social change and justice.
Why did Crum Ewing die?
Why did the Linden martyrs die?
Why did the peaceful Georgetown protestors take buckshot for?
It is incumbent upon this government to be always mindful of the sacrifice of those who gave their lives so that democracy and good governance could be restored to Guyana.
In my humble view, Mr Joe Harmon needs an extended ‘period of reflection’.
Colin Bascom
