As a Grenadian living overseas I am more and more worried regarding the alarming development in Grenada.
NIS
I wrote an open letter on March 8, 2019. It was widely published, even in international press. Here is a small section:-
“I am very concerned regarding the NIS, National Insurance Scheme. The yearly performance on the fund is average at best. The minimal opening to the international market and e.g. a minor investment in equity are too little too late.
There is no Annual Report 2013 (and no Report 2017). A “combined” report 2013 and 2014 confirms indebtedness of the Government year-end 2015 of XCD 178m equal 20% of the fund.
What’s wrong with this organisation? It is outright dangerous to borrow entrusted money, future pension income, to a government with a Standard & Poors Rating SD, selective default with little prospect of recovery. I am shocked that a government has the impertinence to use the pension fund of its people as lender of last resort.”
The situation has worsened since. The recent self-service of the Government is illegal, even in multiple ways, I think. It is shameful. It should in my opinion be assessed by a court. The Dictator may lose another case at court. Equally drawn to justice should be the NIS top management and the board members.
Continuing like this will lead inevitably to NIS’ bankruptcy sooner or later. The retired people will be the victims and they will feel the pain – every single day.
Naguib Sawiris
I wonder what is driving this man. Not a love for Grenada and its people. A plea for support in a serious medical urgency to safe a live was not even answered.
The comprehensive annual reports of Orascom Development and Orascom Development Egypt itemise investments in many countries. Grenada is not mentioned. Is there a reason to hide the activities?
Displayed are again (!) yearly losses (https://www.orascomdh.com/investor-relations and https://www.orascomde.com/investor-relations).
Does he want to become the next “strong man” in Grenada entitled by his far-reaching possessions on the island? It will become an interesting duel with Chinese representatives protecting their investments. All on the back of the people and to their disadvantage.
Sawiris’ proposal to privatise the airport is suspect. Like it or not, at first glance it is a good suggestion and a proven model. But in the case of Grenada it is different. The (private) airport cannot break even with its minimal traffic. Just not doable. The danger now is to rate the airport based on its actual finance numbers. The consequence would be to “sell” it at a token. Anything else of interest to buy?
The reaction of the Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister tells a lot about her work ethics,
“I hope someone gives me a job if that happens”.
I heard similar remarks of Ministers before on other occasions. It is not about the wellbeing of the country but their personal benefit.
Treatment of Jude Bartholomew
Follow the international press and the approach is evident. Redundant and disproportionate action to let the government find out how far it can go. Or in other words it is a test to see how far intimidation can go without provoking a mass reaction of the people.
The impact of this frontier crossing goes far beyond what is visible right now. The integrity of the individual is undermined.
In summary
Too many domains develop in the wrong direction. The point of no return may soon be reached. Beyond this point lurks more poverty and more oppression.
Grenadians are resilient and that’s a problem in this situation. Only a u-turn can lead out of this dead-end-street and the majority of the people must be activated and firmly engaged.
Overseas Grenadian