Ramesh not hypocritical on Panday

Maharaj is now providing life support to Panday and without Maharaj on his side Panday is finished because the UNC lost election after election with Maharaj.

Maharaj’s position on Panday is not contradictory or hypocritical because he never accused Panday of being corrupt. Instead, Maharaj called for investigations into allegations of corruption.

Maharaj has accused the Manning government of not investigating serious allegations of corruption in the PNM which has been looting the treasury. In almost every speech, Maharaj has stressed the importance of openness, transparency and accountability.

He has not deviated from that objective. Following the recent internal elections in the UNC, both Winston Dookeran and Panday gave a public commitment that steps would be taken within the party to investigate allegations of corruption and to promote integrity. This is in line with Maharaj’s thinking and requirement to work with the UNC. So he has not shifted his position in agreeing to work with Panday.

Also, one can’t get bogged down in past differences when the country has to be rescued. Maharaj has made it clear that he is supporting Panday as Opposition leader (OL) because OL is an important position to protect the public interest. A strong leader is needed at this time. Dookeran has not shown that he has the skills of Panday.

It should be noted that Dookeran has committed to supporting the CCJ and Police Reform bills, both of which will reduce the freedom of the nation. I think Maharaj is right to support Panday over Dookeran because Panday, as Maharaj stated, has a tested record of debating and winning battles in parliament and throughout the country.

I can’t think of any battles that Dookeran has fought for the opposition.

Robert Callender

Delaford