Alfred C. Frett. Photo: VINO File

Buffeted by natural and man-made disasters, our hopes for fairness and justice dwindle or become elusive, rendering us increasingly desperate and anxious to do anything that may ease the physical pain and mental strain.

During such times, bad leadership is mistaken for rescue and we react hastily, even if it means marching against the marchers while still accusing their march of doing more harm than good. As victims of a cycle, entrapped by despair after despair, bad ideas follow bad ideas and the fever of marching for marching sake, drives us into believing that with so much corruption and wrongs, we need to do something dramatic. However, as a people who have come so far, we should realize that before our feet hit the road we should first list and agree on our real concerns and our intended goals.

Who are the real Controllers of Governments?

Our concerns (excluding UK) are many and while ineptitude of local politicians may contribute to the situation, these problems have existed from Government to Government, which means they must arise from other underlying causes. Analysis reveals a major source as being directly related to those permanent components of the Civil Service that create, continue and implement problem after problem.

While politicians may claim to be bigger than life, they are term limited and fully dependent on civil servants, so tackling them for solutions and remedies is no more useful or productive than we have seen from successive Governments. Clearly, it is time to admit and acknowledge the major effect of senior civil servants and associations who display greater power and influence than our elected leaders.

Why not talk before we walk?

Subsequently, if our real goal is the achievement of just causes, then, before expending kinetic and emotional energies, we must develop realistic strategies. Our first step should be to meet and discuss the credibility and urgency of our issues. Then, select and direct delegations to the decision makers within the relevant Ministries, Departments and Associations in order to obtain the desired results.

Remember, they have been in control for years, so our mission will not be easy. Nonetheless, our negotiations and actions must begin without delay, for our people are hurting badly and with the UK around every corner and Elections just over the horizon. Here and now is the best time to achieve results, so, let our deeds surpass mere words and if all else fail, then, I too stand ready to march with you.  

PS: I will continue addressing some of your Questions & Comments on Live BVP Radio Programs