The New Today

Letters

Stand Tall Black Wizard

Many citizens now seem to think that every criticism of anything in Grenada is about Politics, whether partisan or not. The fact is there is a conscious attempt to discredit public debate by the very label (politics) which has descended to its lowest level in living memory.

The result is an increased level of public apathy that citizens don’t care if Good Friday falls on a Sunday. We grumble in our homes, argue in rum-shops or walk away from those who may want to discuss an issue of public interest.

The recent Cellphonegate  Scandal exposes a society which seems to have lost its bearings and maybe worst yet, its social conscience. In the face of his wrong doing, NNP propagandist Sheldon Scott seem hell bent on dictating the terms under which he has to repay Grenadian taxpayers for the abuse of the public purse.

Where are the men of conscience in our society? It seems that they have all passed on. Andre Lewis of the TUC made a call for an independent inquiry, the Chamber of Commerce has not issued any public statement and the Council of Churches is unusually mum.

The blame game is definitely on as the Prime Minister, in a shameless display of “poor me one” only serve to embarrass a once proud Grenadian citizenry. The pursuit of democracy cannot be served by a citizenry who is not prepared to speak out and stand up.

It is indeed incredible that on Friday 2nd August, the Black Wizard celebrated fifty (50) years in the calypso artform. The activity at the Spice Basket was well attended and included guest artistes of the caliber of Chalkdust, Lord Relator, Lord Funny, Gypsy and others.

However, not a single government minister was present and even worse The Spice Mas Corporation saw it fit not to celebrate this national icon on such an occasion. Instead, they chose to recognise Preying Mantis and Flying Turkey at this year’s Dimache Gras. This is not to say that these artistes are not worthy of emulation but Come On guys.

Wizards’ political affiliation is well known but fair is fair. The current holders of political office continue on their fractious and even infantile use of state power to further push our country into an abyss. Nepotism and discrimination is the order of the day. No wonder the present Prime Minister once declared that political loyalty is of greater significance (to him) than competence.

History will absolve the Black Wizard for his patriotism, persistence and advocate for the Grenadian people. Stand tall Brother.