We feel that the time has come now for our leaders to act responsibly and in a mature manner, throw petty differences behind their backs and get on with the job of nation building. We do not believe that either of the two leaders must be allowed to juggle with the welfare of the people.

As much as we subscribe to the fact that both sides have formidable constituencies, in the interest of nation healing and development, we feel that for the dialogue to move forward, both Mr. Jagdeo and Mr. Hoyte must resume the process in an open mind that would lead to the benefit of all the peoples of this country.

We have come a long way since independence and have crossed many hurdles on our way to self-determination and national development. We must not allow those hard fought gains to be trampled upon by those in our midst who are in a state of carefully contrived amnesia.

Since the starting and breaking away of the dialogue started between the two leaders, at least two very important things have surfaced which one way or the other directly affect the people. During the several rounds of discussions that were held at least certain deficiencies were identified and mechanisms were put in place to take corrective measures, and problems affecting the people in the communities identified have already started receiving benefits..

On the other hand, all Guyanese recognise that since the break in the dialogue process, violent crimes have increased tremendously and have so far left an indelible mark on our society.

Head of the Presidential Secretariat and Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon couldn’t have put it any better when he told journalists at his weekly post cabinet press briefing that the crime situation in the country demands restarting of the dialogue process.

We believe that this statement is unreservedly endorsed by all Guyanese and has given deep content to the importance of the dialogue process, especially when he said: “ That is what this country needs and until such time that the PNC/R withdraw from this extremely inexplicable and unacceptable position of not engaging the PPP administration, the difficulties in Guyana will not be addressed to the fullest and the most comprehensive extent.”

We are sure that Guyanese will have high expectations next year as long as the dialogue is restarted and the two leaders work conscientiously with the welfare of the Guyanese people close to their heart.