The author strayed from the objectivity in the selection/election of Mr. Hoyte’s successor. While I strongly believe that Messrs. Corbin, Alexander and Murray among others mentioned have all paid their dues and made valuable contributions to the PNC, it is an affront to the intelligence and integrity of the party, its members, supporters and the Guyanese public to suggest that these persons are entitled to be elevated to the honourable position of party leader. Why?

It was misleading to indicate that Mr. Bernard was part of the PNC during the Burnham era. After all, it is a known fact that this goodly gentleman was thoroughly against the Founder Leader, therefore it is ironic for anyone to suggest this man inherited the legacy of our Founder Leader. In addition, while this man is an academic of outstanding quality, he is not known or regarded as one with substantial political influence inside or outside the PNC/R.

Mr. Ivor Allen is known to be a very able and successful businessman and rice farmer and has also proven to be a capable party Chairman in his region. However, being a person of integrity he himself would not want to bite off more than he could chew.

Mr. Vincent Alexander, the present Vice-Chairman of the party is known to be a decent, intelligent, committed and loyal party person like so many others. Although this gentleman faithfully served the party at many levels, unfortunately, he does not enjoy the respect and loyalty within the party’s structure as the author seemingly conveyed. I therefore venture to say that Mr. Trotman commands more loyalty and respect than Mr. Alexander and other senior party functionaries. Mr. Alexander’s outstanding academic achievement, coupled with long service will not generate the necessary national support to see the PNC into government nor rescue the nation. This is obvious, as his long association with the PNC will only serve to his disadvantage; unlike Mr. Trotman’s image which is not tarnished, but is rather propelling an air of new and renewed enthusiasm across Guyana.

With regards Mr. Corbin, the writer is not realistic with the facts. This man, whose only claim to leadership is long service has a track record which does not contain the slightest shred of dignity or respectability, whether in the party or in national circles. For one to highlight other reasons why this man should not even be considered to such office would take up the entire newspaper. Mr. Corbin’s ascendancy would be bad news for the party and Guyana.

In respect of the author’s opinion of Mr. Trotman, it is clear that there is no substantive objective reason(s) why this man of unblemished character should not ascend to the leadership of the PNC/R. The Party stands a better chance at maintaining the restored honour and dignity Mr. Hoyte worked so diligently in establishing over the years.

Mr. Trotman is the only candidate the PNC/R could present to the populace which would give the party any chance of Government in a democratic and peaceful manner. With regard to Mr. Trotman having to adopt Machiavellian Principles, I will submit that the author is confused. Messrs. Corbin, Alexander and others have all been students of Machiavellian, Marx, Lenin and Mao, so I cannot see Mr. Trotman being as Machiavellian, for even the author indicates his lack of experience.

Finally, Mr. Trotman is much more popular nationally than the other overrated names mentioned.
O’Brian Fraser