Ralph Gonsalves, Death Threats And His Integrity

Every Monday morning, the Prime Minister, his press secretary or the police will hold press conferences or they made press releases; informing the general public of death threats, that were made against the life of the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Ralph E. Gonsalves. Of the many death threats that were made against the prime minister’s life, the shallow release never went into, the means by which such threats were made (letters, email, telephone, in person, via messenger or otherwise). It is quite interesting that no one was ever arrested or taken into to custody to be questioned in relation to these serious allegations against the head of Government of an independent state.

In this modern and technologically advance world, the degree holding Commissioner of Police or any member of his high profile team which was assigned to investigate these offences never came up a person of interest. As far as I know, the prime minister and the police did not even know by what means the threats were made. Thus making it impossible to detect or trace these threats to the person/people who “allegedly issued them.

Everyone knows, that a threat issue to an ordinary citizen is an offence that merits police involvement, in such case the offender or offenders are located and warned and if such continue, the offender or offenders may be summon before the court. We also know that a threat made to a diplomat is a very serious issue, and one can be arrested for issuing such. Now tell me; how serious is a threat of any kind that is made to a head of government? However, when such threats are issued and threathen to takes the life of the a head of State or head of government; such is even more serious and should be given top priority; as a matter of fact, such threaths are issues of national security and should take precedence.

May I remind you, that these death threats that were allegedly issued to Ralph Gonsalves, were issued, at a time in his tenor as head of government, when he was most popular with the people. Isn’t it strange that as of or just around August 2008 Ralph did not receive anymore threats against his life? How could this be? It is now that Ralph Gonsalves is at the point where he is most unpopular and despised even by the people who once loved and condone all of his ills. Isn't this the time that he should be getting the death threats by the thousands? However no one has time to send him any such threats.

There are two explanations for this and they are:

• No threats were ever issue to or against Ralph Gonsalves. The Prime Minister and his cronies made up these story and file false report to the police in oder to envoke the sympathy of the community; so their dishonest actions would be over looked, ignored or defended by the community. Please bear in mind, it is a crime to make a false Report or reports to the police and it matters not the nature of the report. Could it be, that this is the reason they never get a lead or even the shadow of a suspect.

• The threats that were being made against the Prime Minister's life were of a personal nature, had nothing to do with his office of Prime Minister and him mismanaging the affairs of the country.

If the threats in question, which were issued to Ralph Gonsalves, were issued as a result of a personal matter then he must know who was the person or the group that was responsible for issuing such threats. The questions that we ought to find answers for are: why were these threats issued? And why didn’t the police affect an arrest and take the offender or offenders before the court to answer associated charges?

I cannot see how the police are unable to track down and arrest a person or group that have been continually threaten the security and stability of the country. If you could have catch P John back then, why can’t you catch the culprits now?

At the time the threats were such a serious matter that Ralph saw it fit to invest over half of a million dollars to aquier a secure vehicle for his offical transportation, he also appointed a whole team of Special Service Unit (SSU) trained police officer to ensure his protection and to top it off; he had an  out riders, who was to ensure, Ralph Gonsalves unobstructed movement around the country. A series of expensive security measure; that resulted from the threats that made the Prime Minister Gonsalves fear for his safety. Have the person or group who was responsible for issuers threats against the prime minister’s life, pack up and left? Did they migrate? or did the PM made peace with the offenders?

Common sense tells me, now the PM is at the ebb of his popularity, where the people at home and aboard cannot stand the man and where his colleagues across the Caribbean, out of courtesy, are forced to exhibit professional tolerance toward him should be the time the threat level should be high. However, from all reports, Ralph has been going around shaking hands, hugging fat women and kissing babies with little or no security. So once again I asked where are, where were or where is the threats and where have the threat and the offenders gone?

The Audacity of Ralph Gonsalves

Last Thursday, I tuned in to Nice Radio and I heard the moderators on the Thursday night program discussing the Anesia Richards-Baptiste saga. In their effort to stimulate discussion and to motivate community participation, they make, what were in my mind to be a pointless comparison. They compared the level of general accountability of a civil servant to that of an elected public officer. In my opinion they appear to be using Anesia’s unfortunate event to gain ratings for their show. They are unlike the New Times program on the same station that takes this matter serious. So I sent a quick email. I will like to take this opportunity to elaborate on the point I made via email at this time.

Unfortunately, over the years, members of the Vincentian community have come to revered politician; and over the course of time, many politicians took advantage of the people’s political ignorance. They cause the people to unrealistically learn to depend on them (the politician), even though they knew they are unable to ever satisfy the individual needs of the people. We all know Ralph's motto is: "if you keep the people in hopes of getting you will forever be able to manipulate them and forever keep them at your feet in permanent servitude." So they create laws to regulate everyone and every office except themselves. What became of the integrity legislation that was to govern the behavior of elected and other high profile government officials, which Ralph Gonsalves and his ULP government was so adamant, they were going to implemented when they took the reign of government?

Now, let me get back to the basis of the discussion. A person who holds an elected office has a grater level of responsibility than a civil servant. Therefore, they are more accountable and the accountability of an elected officer, stretches even further then being custodian of the resources they were elected to manage and grow. When individuals offer themselves to be an elected member of parliament, they are actually saying; they are credible individuals and are capable of managing and growing the country’s resources. They are also saying they are capable of controlling their behavior and elevate the standard of their conduct in such a manner that would elevate the tone of the country.

We must also remember one of the responsibilities of an elected officer (politician) enable them to speak publicly as well as privately on behalf of their constituency and or ministry. Unlike the civil servant who are not even authorized to speak on behalf of the department unless they are so instructed. So when a civil servant speaks publicly outside the line of his or her paid duties, they are not representing the department they are assigned to; however when a politician speaks they are speaking on behalf of their government, ministry, or constituency. When a civil servant left the office they represents themselves, which is unlike the elected officer (politician) who wear the uniform of public officer 24/7. Base on this they are in a far different bracket than any civil servant. The responsibilities are far different.

It is said that 16 charges were laid against Anesia for violating the Public Servant act. Anesia is a public servant and she is required to act in accordance to the public Service act,  if in doing so, the public service act infringed on Anseia’s fundamental human rights as is provided in the constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines; then she is not obligated to comply with that act or any law that calls for her or anyone to sacrifice his or her constitutional rights. I am sure Ralph and his cronies know that Anesia has no obligation to comply with any law that infringe on her fundamental rights. Although many Judges have agreed that the fundamental human rights of the individual takes president over governmental protection regulation such as The Police Act, Civil/Public Service Act, they avoid giving a direct ruling on such matter for fear that a decisive ruling on behalf of the plaintiff can open the flood gated that can lead to anarchy. So is my rights a right, something that has consequences if trampled upon or is my rights a privilege, which can be revoked at anytime with no expected repercussion.

The question that I need answer for are:

1. 
   
   Did Anesia violate the confidentiality of her office or the department she is assigned to?
2. 
   
   Did Anesia in her presentation bring her office and department in to disrepute? Ralph must understand Anesia or any government employee cannot be held responsible and accountable for the whole government service but they are held accountable for the information they are exposed to in the line of their paid duty.
3. 
   
   Did Anesia knowingly lie on anyone or about anything or did she slander anyone in her presentation?
4. 
   
   When Anesia speak about Ralph Gonsalves and his ULP government was she just relating checkable collaborated fact?
5. 
   
   Was Anesia’s only offence was the fact that she was bold enough to speak the truth?
6. 
   
   Are we saying that as long as you are employed with the Government you are only permitted to criticize religion and your neighbor and does it all depends on who your neighbor are?

It is the expressed intent of the constitution, that every citizen has the rights to live their conscience, and to freely practice all of the rights that their nation’s constitution award to them. If it was not the intent then their would have been a clearly stated distinction. The fact that an individual is an employee of the State (Government) should in no way diminish that person’s rights to practice his or her conscience. No one or institution should ever interfere with their freedom of speech, prevent them from constructively criticize anyone or anything even the government; to expose lies and liars, unveil corruption, and prevent a corrupt government from deceiving the people and cause the enactment of a dirt document (constitution) to aid in their evil.

Are we promoting the growth of negative character traits in the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines by sending the wrong message? Are we suggesting; that as long as an individual is employed with the government, a public officers; they are required to see management misuse public funds and say nothing, are they to look at corrupt public officer as the practice their illegal habit in public office and against the nation and say nothing. Are they to see wrong committed against their fellow colleagues and are bind to silence; could this be right?

Now let us examine the paradox of this situation; firstly, Ralph Gonsalves was accused of Raping and sexually assaulting a serving police officer; yet he being an elected public officer is made to run about in his capacity of Prime Minister, beating his chest like a baboon on steroids and is allow to sit in the same House of Parliament, discussing the affairs of the nation with dignified men like Arnhim Eustace. Then again a Vincentian Canadian lawyer made a stunning revelation that Ralph Gonsalves: Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines try to rape her but her resistance only allowed him to sexually assault her; I shudder to think of what would have happened to this lady if she did not take matters into her own hands and resist his efforts; yet Ralph Gonsalve the accused rapist and alleged sexual predator is left in his lofty portfolio to prosecute poor little Anesia.

What did Anesia do in comparison to Ralph? How is it the creators of Anesia's troubles and those who are bold enough to publicly support the actions against Anesia were not brave enough to call for the arrest and prosecution of Ralph? Is this a case where Vincentian only have strength to trample upon the rights of our women?

Anesia Richards-Baptiste should not be made to deal with such foolish stress. She has been a credit to he family, her community and her character. It is unfortunate and shameful that Ralph Gonsalves the accused sexual offender; will once again use his office to cowardly try to break another strong Vincentian. However there are some of us who take pride in our legacy, who are not for sale, who don’t throw around their loyalty blindly, who is stronger than Ralph and his group of cronies will ever know. Like every loyal child of Jehovah Anesia is going to be better, stronger and wiser.

It is time that Ralph Gonsalves understand that loyalty and respect cannot be bought, forced, or manipulated but loyalty and respect has to be earn. Ralph Gonsalves is going to learn this lesson the hard way. I have seen and felt the repercussion of lending a supportive voice on behalf of Anesia. But the truth must be told, and I am not afraid to speak the truth or to criticize anyone for as Edmund Burke said, ‘The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. I am a good man that cannot stand the stench of evil hence the reason my voice will not be still by fear.

An Open Letter to Anesia Richards-Baptiste

Anesia Richards-Baptiste the face of youthful courage.

 

Brooklyn

New York

USA 11226

Dear Anesia,

How are you? For the pass few weeks, I have been receiving messages of concern about you, both via the internet and phone. Some of my friends are concern about the rumors that Ralph Gonsalves, the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has put into motion the machinery to cause you to be dismissed from your post within the Government service. Honestly I am not to concern about the evil intent of Ralph Gonsalves; however, I am concern about you and your relationship with Jehovah. for it is your relationship with Jehovah that will determine how you deal with the rumors, and the evils that are being plot against you.

By now, you would have learnt that, Ralph Gonsalves insecurities, makes him a very vindictive person (I almost refer to him as “man”) and to him; it will make good sense to teach you a lesson; in order to, instill fear in the masses, thus shaking the Vincentian community back into the cocoon of silence. He is hoping that by doing this, the people will be afraid to cross him again thus facilitating his continued sexual or other manipulation against female, the people of St. Vincent and the nation’s treasury.

From one child of Jehovah to another, I am writing to admonish you to be faithful to Jehovah. It is sad that the nation’s leader do not believe in Jehovah, and when he read this letter and I know he will; he is going to make some wise crack like, let their Jehovah prevent me from firing her. However, the word said in Psalms 84: 11 “the lord grant favor and honor, no blessing/good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” We know that the devil is among us and he has many imps one of whom is Ralph Gonsalves. These demon and demon possessed individuals are afraid and jealous of the wisdom and the courage Jehovah’s children possess; they will do anything in their power to cause the children of the living God hardship, they will try to tarnish his children character and bring their credibility into question but they will fail.

It matters not what plan they come up with, always remember that our God have promised that the angel of the lord encamps around those who love him and he delivers them. So don’t pay Ralph Gonsalves and the other imps any mind, Just continue to be faithful to Jehovah, continue to walk with your head held high, your shoulder erect, a smile on your face and most of all; be ready to pick a fight for justice and that which is right and they will see all of their well thought out, evil plans foil without any effort from you. Always remember, Jehovah is not man that he should lie, so when he said; “When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shall not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.” Isaiah 43:2.

You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will observe and see the punishment of the wicked (Ralph Gonsalves).

I have fought many battles and thanks to Jehovah I have never lost one; however, there were times when I did not get the desired results; and those were the times when I was unfaithful to Jehovah. His (Jehovah) words are clear, he don’t reward unfaithfulness. Don't be to concern about those who try to discourage you from doing what you do. It is simple, they do not understand Jehovah's will, and direction for you. In most cases they may have close their ears, and heart from his calling and from doing his will and they want you to do the same. All I can tell you is no matter what plans are in the works against you and who is sent to distract you; your faithfulness to Jehovah is going to determine whether you get the desired victory (whether he prepare the table before you in the presence of your enemies) over evil and evil doers.

Your Brother and Friend

Sig.    Allan H. F. Palmer

Happy Thanksgiving

The United States of America is celebrating what I refer to as the holiday of reflection: Thanksgiving. Come Thursday 26th November 2009 (the day designate) many people in the USA and around the world will take timeout for honest reflection, for the many cause they have to be thankful.

Like the millions of American I am taking this opportunity this thanksgiving to give thanks for all of the wonderful things and the uplifting experiences that made up my recent and distance past; I am also taking this opportunity to give thanks for the all of the adversities and the misgivings I experienced over the period. For it is those adverse events that inspires character growth in sincere, honest and decent people who are wise enough to look for the teaching/learning moments such unfavorable experiences presents.

Although we avoid speaking of such because of the pain that is associated with awakening the bad memories, it is important to know that it is these moments that is responsible for shaping our character and what makes us the unique people that we are. It will do us good, to move towards healing, put away the bitterness and embrace such unfortunate events as just another of life’s adventure.

This thanksgiving, we must also bear in mind that before we can be truly thankful we must first learn to forgive those who have trespassed against us; for it is only by forgiving that we can truly be appreciative of life’s experiences good and/or bad. How can I be thankful for favor or blessings we did not deserved yet we allows the hate that manifests itself in our heart from allowing us to extend the same favor to another (the person I hate) in need.

I have so much to be thankful for, I am thankful that Jehovah have be store his favor upon me and for blessing me with the prayers of some of the most supportive, confidential, objective and loving family and friends a man could ever asked for. They may not be many but that are just what I need.

I am also thankful to Jehovah for blessing me with a clear mind, which allows me to function above that which is average; for a range of knowledge and the ability to grasp, understand and to apply new concepts with very little ease; for blessing me with wisdom to disown, analyze, and to put things into its proper prospective; but must of all; I am grateful for the ability to honestly, fearlessly, unselfishly clearly communicate my thoughts with others even in the face of possible adverse repercussion.

I am thankful for the fact that the promises of plenty did not caused me to turn a blind eye to the actions of dishonest men, that the love for and of money have never inspired my actions, that prestigious associations could not influences my honesty, and the hope of a handout have never interrupted the effective function of my conscience.

I also give thanks for the opportunity to legally exist in the greatest democracy on earth; where boundless opportunity awaits all: The United States of America. This mighty country where it is impossible for detractors, who dwell in the world of small insecure minds and are engulfed in their petty prejudices to block your path to success and doom you to failure. A place where the impossible dreams are realized and hard workout, talent and valiant efforts are rewarded; a place where redress is guaranteed and there is a place even for the weak. This is not to say that the USA is a perfect place but it is a place where Justice is treasured.

An as always, when the bad times come I will remind myself using the words of the grate Vincentian Poet Michael John the Black Messenger:

"I am a winner, my will grows stronger every day. I am that victor; one thing they can never take away. I know the bottle is hard but the struggle is not in vain, each time I stumble and I fall: I WILL RISE AGAIN."

Finally, I must thank Jehovah for my tomorrow and all of the blessing tomorrow has secure for me. For the drive he had placed within me, the willpower I am going to need to persevere in the months ahead, for the strength to break down new barriers, the guts to scale the heights I am going to reach, the drive to attain my new accomplishment that awaits me but most of all I thank Jehovah for ensuring I remains humility, consistent and simple.

Is The Money And The Movements Of Such Illigal?

Listening to a presentation made by the Hon Arnhem Eustace: the leader of the New Democratic Part, the leader of the parliamentary opposition and the most trusted politician there is in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as well as the Caribbean shocked me when I learn of the very unethical and possible illigal events that he brought to the public’s attention. These events relate to the irregular flow of United States currency into St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the months of October and November 2009, and the people who were associated with such activities. According to the information presented by the Hon. Arnhem Eustace, who fearlessly made a publicly declaration and identified people by name; people who the Vincentian community including myself know to be, key members of the Unity Labor Party or associates of the Ralph Gonsalves and his Unity Labor Party.

It is no secret that Government all over the world, have update their laws to guard against money laundering and other financial crimes. In the same breath banks all over the world have upgraded their policies and operational guidelines to guard against money laundering and other financial crimes, for these crimes has certain level of brutality, commercial, economical and other adverse repercussions associated to such criminal activities.

It is not surprising to me, that such movement of monies occurred around the time just prior to the people going to the poles to vote in a referendum on Constitution reform neither is it surprising that the people associated with such activities are members of, and persons who are associated with the Ralph Gonsalves Unity Labor Party.

It is important that an expected degree of consistency is practice in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, not one set of laws, rules and exemptions for a particular group and their associates and another set of laws and rules for the remainder of us. This is not only Dishonest it is unethical and unconstitutional.

We all knows that if any citizen of St. Vincent goes to the bank to make a deposit of a certain amount, before that bank can accept that money, the person making that deposit is required to declare to the bank the source of the money and if the person making that deposit cannot declare such source or after having declare the source of the money the teller is not satisfy that the source of the money is a legitimate source; he must informed his supervisor who should in turn inform the police.

We must also understand that a business man and/or woman who conduct business within St. Vincent and the Grenadines, are expected to deposit large amounts of money of up to a certain amount; as proceeds derived from his or her business and the amount that is accepted as a deposit is base on the nature and expected daily turnover of the business. It is important to note that anytime a businessman try to make a deposit that is beyond that of the capacity of his business or an amount that is an exorbitant amount over his regular deposit, that deposit should not be accepted, senior bank official should be informed and if management is not satisfy with the source of the money or the source if the money do not meet the banks stipulation the police should be informed of the matter.

It is important to note that the US dollars are not official currency of trade in St. Vincent and the Grenadines and when members of the public goes to any financial institution to exchange foreign currency above a certain amount the source of that funds should be declared; for to exchange such large volume of currency without validating the source of the monies may be in violation of regulation that governs the banks in St. Vincent and the world over.

It is important that a National Bank of any country be the hallmark standard, leading the other banks that operates in that country in the implementation of policies that will ensure the laws of the land are not broken, to ensure the depositors’ monies are secure and the management and staff are men and women of high ethical conviction and practice. With this in mind let us examine the activities that have been going on at the National Commercial Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the association of the people who are involved.

According to the information, one million US dollars cash came into St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and this money has possible ties to the Unity Labor Party; however this money was not deposited into an account but was exchange for East Caribbean currency. Can you imagine a person walking around with over 2.5 million plus EC dollars in a case a sack or whatever container the money was transported in?

It is said that Julian Francis the close cousin of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, a prominent member of the Unity Labor Party (ULP) of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who also holds the appointed office of senator and is also a minister in the Ralph Gonsalves Unity Labor Party Government, have been involved in irregular movement of United States Currencies over the pass month, it was brought to the attention of the community that; Minister Julian Francis has exchange the sum of Forty nine thousand, six hundred ($49.600 US) United States dollars between October 22^nd 2009 and November 2^nd 2009. Was it coincident that Mr. Francis has come into such large amount of money in such a short period of time in the allotted quantities?

There is also a Vermont resident who is closely associated with the Unity Labor Party, who cashed five thousand (5,000.00) US dollars making the transaction in close succession, and my dear Eloise Gonsalves Nee Harris the traumatized wife of Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves; who walk with her head held in shame after allegations of rape and sexual assault and other such allegation was brought against her husband who betrayed her trust;

showed up to the National Commercial bank on five different occasion between the 30^th October 2009 and the 13^th November 2009, to exchange twelve thousand nine hundred (12,900.00) US dollars.

These irregular transactions have awakened my sense of smell, a fishy odor is detected and the odor is associated and is coming from these transactions. I will never asked any of my friend to lie or to do anything illegal on my behalf, not even if such lie will get me out of trouble, I will never asked my children or a person I am dating to lie or do anything illegal for me no matter how desperate I am. So you can understand my concern for Eloise Gonsalves, I hope that the man will not be so low as to get this woman involved in anything illegal, dishonest or unethical; after all, someone in the Prime Minister’s home should represent what is good and decent about people; it is the only way the hand of dishonesty can be slowed when they has a conscience outside of their own to appeal to his lack of ethic, justice and morals.

The only people who travel with or cause such large quantities of cash/monies to be transported from place to place are drug dealers, money launderers, hit men, embezzlers, people who are trying to avoid paying taxes, and people who are involved in other illegal or dishonest activities.

There are to many safe means of getting large sums of money from counties to countries, and it is only a person who is trying desperately to hide a paper trail will go through such trouble to avoid using the safe system that is in place to move such large volume of cash. It is in times like these we need integrity legislation to ensure that the men who love to abuse the authority that is associated with their office are kept in check and pay the consequences of their actions.

Arnhim Eustace the people's and the country's guardian has a number of question he asked in the house of Parliament; questions if the Prime Minister answer, would incriminated him and the other who participated in the questionable transactions; however, I have a few questions of my own, that I will like to have answer to, and they are:

• Why didn’t the people involved in the trade of the US currency use another bank beside the National Commercial Bank?
• Did the bank worker who facilitated the transaction follow the banking protocol in each case?
• Who was responsible for approving Julian Francis’ transactions?

• Who was responsible for approving the transaction that involved the one million US dollars, did that person followed the Bank protocol?

• Will the financial crime unit be looking into these transactions?

• Where and from whom these monies came?

• Why the source of the funds did not cause the monies to be wired to St. Vincent or why didn’t they use a cashier’s check or some other lawful, safe and convenient means to ensure the money arrived at its destination safe?

• On face value these transactions seems as if they are in violation of some local, regional and international laws. Are they?

Some will want to treat us like Fools and try to have us believed that the monies were gift given by Vincentian at home. Will I living in St. Vincent making a donation to the Unity Labor Party, is going to go out of my way to secure US currency to give them? Or I will give them the equivalent to the US in EC after all the monies are going to be spent here. Would I be so foolish as to go to the bank and purchase US dollars at a rate of all most $2.90 EC for a dollar to have the Unity Labor Party exchange the said money at $2.66 dollars per dollar. This is foolish, dumb and nonsensical!!!!

The Guiding Principles: What Are They?

It is unfortunate that some supporters of the Vote Yes Campaign are using aspects of the "Guiding Principles" as enforceable laws of the constitution. This is done in an effort to convinced members of the Vincentian community to support their cause and on the 25th November 2009 the community may join with them and vote Yes in the Referendum and thus enact the constitution act 2009 the Supreme law of S.V.G. Apart from being unfortunate it is shameful that responsible men will act so immature and dishonest on a matter of national importance.

Although I heard many legal professional speak of the "Guiding Principles" that are apart of the Constitution act 2009; apart from referring to them and the way they are being used no one took the time to explain to the public in simple understandable language (English) what are the Guiding Principles? Why such are apart of the Constitution? And the relevance of such in the context of the body of law?

What are the Guiding Principles?

The Guiding principles are a group of principles that were taking into consideration by the drafters and others participant who were involved in the construction of the Constitution. The Constitution should be based on these principles and therefore they should be reflected within the document. the principles that are held dear and are widely practiced in and by the community. Every action, meeting, discussion, consultation and any other activities that took place as part of the construction process of the final document, in this case: the Constitution Act 2009.

The Constitution should have evolved with these principled at the fore. In other words, the guiding principles should have been the light which lit the part that led to this document. Why do I get the impression that the guiding principles were thrown together along the way or even after the constitution was completed.

Every constitution is divided into two section the enforceable section (the law) and the none enforceable section (areas such as the guiding principles)

Why are the Guiding principles a part of the Constitution act 2009?

There are two important reasons why the Guiding Principles are apart of the Constitution act 2009 even though they are not laws. These reasons are:

• The Guiding Principles give those who reads the constitution a better understanding of certain aspect of the enforceable part of the constitution as well as; it give others a clear understanding of the principles on which the law was founded.

• The Guiding Principles also gives the ordinary individuals as well as those who are endowed with the powers to interpret and make ruling on such laws a guide line as to what objective the people were trying to meet or accomplish, what situation they were trying to address, what conditions they were trying to prevent and what aspect of their life they wanted to protect or what were they guarding against.

Although the Guiding Principles are not enforceable laws, they play a very important interpretive role that will provide a better understanding what was the intention of the of the people when they create this document. (the enforceable section of the constitution act 2009).

Let me give you a practical example of how the guiding principles work.

Let us use for a point of example the first of the Guiding Principles as recorded in the document at 5 (1) which deals with the sovereignty of the people (the people are responsibility for their own affairs). The enforcable section of the Constitution should seek to outline in detail, the means by which the people will be so empowered and how are they are going to excersise their sovereign rights as a people. Nothing in the enforceable laws should seek to erode the sovereignty of the people but to promote such.

lets take a look at the enforceable section of the Constitution to verify whether the body of this document seek to facilitate the empowerment of a sovereign people.

We can see structures such as the establishment of a government as, the establishment of a boundaries commission, the protocol that deals with the election of Representatives and senators, and the other checks and balances to ensures (to a certain extent) that the people remains sovereign and therefore exercise their sovereignty by democracy.

But there are also somethings in the Enforcable section of the constitution that create a threath, not to the soverignty of the country but to the country being a soverign demacracy, by the ease at which the constitution can be tampered with.

any aspect of a cultural, moral, ethical, social practice and belief that is included in a nation's constitution is a sign that these are aspect of their practice and belief that the people cherished and believe should be upheld and protected for the benefit of the current and future generations.

It is therefore dishonest and unconscionable for anyone to promote the guiding principles as enforceable law. I hope it is not a case of: "if you keep the people ignorant you will rule them better."

NEW TOPIC: The Challenge Issued.

It is important for all to understand with the exception for the Constitution parliament has the power to amend, nullify and or make new laws. Parliament also has the power to enforce such new laws, amendment and nullification of any piece of body of law with a majority vote in the house of Parliament. such laws includes any law that is currently enforced.

although it is my legal, and moral conviction that Homosexuality is an inexcusable and vile act; however, the precessing paragraph is the foundation I have laid to make a bold Claim base on the laws of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I am not only making a bold claim I am also going to challenge any of the Superior legal minds in St. Vincent and the Grenadines or any where in the world to prove me wrong.

On the issue of same sex marriage: there is nothing in the current laws or the new Constitution Act 2009 of St. Vincent and the Grenadines that can prevent two people of the same biological sex or social gender from getting married in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. and those who use the argument of the Buggery laws of the criminal code and the gross Indecency law do not have a practical or legal argument that can convince a Judge that it is illegal for two people of the same sex who want to get married from getting married.

An Open Letter To The Rt. Hon. Arnhim Eustace

To

Rt. Hon. Arnhem Eustace (Leader of the Opposition& the N.D.P)
C/o N.D.P Headquarters
Kingstown
St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Dear Mr. Eustace,

It is with a tremendous level of humility, that I take this opportunity to write this letter to you; to address a situation that has the potential to escalate into a national catastrophe. One that can have a long lasting and devastating effect on your liberty and the liberty of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. I speak of the referendum which will seek to enact the proposed St. Vincent and the Grenadines constitution act 2009, which was passed in the house of Assemble by default on 3rd of September 2009.

Recently I received and reviewed a copy of revised document and I was shock by the quality of the document, the Government of St. Vincent has invested so much time, talent and resources to produce. I am also shock that a man like Ralph Gonsalves who holds a PhD. In political science and a LLB in Law along with his cabinet could be so legally dumb to have sanctioned such a poorly prepared document and take such document to the house for the approval of intelligent men like you, the Major, Dr. Lewis among them.

This lead me to asked the following question, Have my friends Mike Brown and the other former educator in the ULP lost their ability to comprehend written English language? are they no longer interesting in educating the nation’s people? how can they actively participate in the miss-education of the people they say they love? Did Rene Baptiste the prolific lawyer, and a woman whom I like; take the time to review this document? Rene do not strike me as one to knowingly betray her country and her people.

I know there is more to the efforts of the Unity Labor Party Government than that which meets the eyes or as members of the aged population (old people) will say: “there is more in the mortar than the pestle.”

I do not have to tell you that St. Vincent and the Grenadines is now the laughing stock of the every government and their people in the western hemisphere, even the ordinary man who was afforded the opportunity to examine this document are crying shame on us as a nation. Do you know that, associations such as the Netball, Basketball, Volleyball and other sporting association has stronger constitutions for the management of their affairs, when compare to the Constitution act 2009, which is to be used as the supreme law of a sovereign nation? This whole sorry affair is like a humorless joke and no one in their right senses is laughing.

Could Ralph and his cronies be so ignorant, that they will allow such a pathetic document to be put forward to the people, for our approval as the supreme law of this sovereign nation? Ralph Gonsalves is attempting to cause the realization of our greatest fears; which is, to trick us into allowing him to treat the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and their resources in the same manner he currently treats the office of the Director of Public Prosecution and the Police Force. Whatever his plans are, we cannot allow them to be realized; the price will be too high, even higher than the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines should be allowed to pay. Mr. Eustace this is the reason we are relying on you to ensure that such do not happen.

I know that you are the people’s voice and you and your team have been working tirelessly to educate the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines so that they could make an informed decision and vote against this snare (the constitution act 2009). I do not know your entire plans in accomplishing such an important task; however, at this late hour; I will like to make some suggestion which I hope you will give serious consideration to.

To lose an election due to fraudulent means to any political group, is one thing and although it is a serious infringement on honesty, democracy and the constitution; the stolen term will come to an end and the electoral process will come around once more, giving those who lose, the opportunity to take corrective measures thus ensure that such miscarriage of democracy not happen again. However to have the constitution act 2009 of St. Vincent and the Grenadines be approved in a referendum by fraudulent means carries with it, a far greater price and far more severe consequences.

I have taken the temperature of the situation on the ground and I have no doubt that the people will vote against enacting of the Constitution act 2009 in the referendum, and this will result in Ralph, and his evil intention (will) lawfully suffer a devastating defeated. However, I know for a fact, in this case the voice of the people will not be heard. I know that Ralph Gonsalves and his dishonest group have already put the machinery in place to secure a victory by fraud.

This is serious times, and a referendum victory even by fraudulent means only opens up the way for Ralph Gonsalves to ratify the necessary changes to the constitution to ensure that he enslave Vincentian in the same manner Hugo Chavez now enslaves his people using fear as his whip.

You have to understand that Ralph Gonsalves has too much to lose not to have the constitution act 2009 approved by the people he dislike and too often disrespect. There is no secret that the result in the referendum is an indicator of how the next general will go for the ULP Government. Ralph Gonsalves is fully aware that he cannot afford to have the reign of power pry from his fingers by the will of the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He is fully aware that a new administration and a different Director of Public Prosecution, he could be made to stand trial for the rape and sexual assault of the police officer and the sexual assault of the Vincentian/Canadian human Rights lawyer. This is a chance he cannot afford and is not willing to take. I know that although Ralph’s victims are silent now, they are uncomplainingly awaiting their day in court.

Now, I will recommend that we call upon international observers, to over see the referendum; I will like to also suggest that you use your most trustworthy and vigilant of supporters to monitor the poles. These pole monitors must be very militant they should be outfitted with micro recorders and even mini video recorders to document any irregularity that may occur in the station before, during and after the voting. We do not want any ballot boxes to be discovered in any hiding places after the fact. In conclusion let me remind you of a fact I know you are aware that Ralph Gonsalves cannot be trusted; however I say again do not put anything pass him for Ralph Gonsalves is desperate and is willing to do anything to hold onto the reign of government at all cost.

A Reader's View and Author's Reply

A comment made on the Crushing Fools post titled: "St. Vincent Constitution Review: A Closer Look"

Darrien Ollivierre said...

While I agree with most of your argument. I believe you may have misinterpreted Cap 6 Section 68:

"A person shall be qualify to be elected or selected to be a representative if, and shall not be so qualify to be so elected or selective unless he is able to speak and, unless incapacitated by blindness or other physical cause , to read the English language with a degree of proficiency sufficient to allow him to take an active part in the proceedings of the national assemble."

My interpretation is that the section deals with communication in the assembly proceedings. It says that a person must be able to speak and to read the English Language with a degree of proficiency as required to take part in assembly proceedings. However it makes allowance for individuals who are not able to read if "incapacitated by blindness or other physical cause".

I do not interpret the section to be discriminatory I believe it makes concession for persons with disabilities to be elected. In essence, it says that the only reason you should not be able to read the English language well is if you are blind or have some other impediment.

All that being said, I dont think the whole review has been handled appropriately and a great injustice has been carried out by our politicians who have made it into a party political issue, thus seeking to pursuade the populace based on political affiliation.

Furthermore, "yes" campaigners have the nerve to say that persons who do not support the new constitution are unpatriotic!! As far as I am aware, being patriotic means doing what I feel is best for my Nation and it's People, whether that comes in the form of supporting a new constitution or maintaining the existing one.

Reply: Good day Darrien Ollivierre,

I appreciate you and your effort to continue the rational debate, as it relates to the constitution of St. Vincent; I also appreciate your interpretation of this piece of law; however, it is such ambiguity that contributes to the fattening of lawyers coffers and are the reason why they are able to make fools out of the ordinary man. For reason that is anything but honest, they fail to make their intent clear, hence the reason they attach tons of jumbles to their written and vocal expression. It is their intent to keep the ordinary man and woman in a state of confusion; for it is in our state of mental confusion we are forced to use their service.

Now let’s break down this piece of ambiguous writing together.

"A person shall be qualify to be elected or selected to be a representative if, and shall not be so qualify to be so elected or selective unless he is able to speak and, unless incapacitated by blindness or other physical cause, to read the English language with a degree of proficiency sufficient to allow him to take an active part in the proceedings of the national assemble."

The sentence starts with, “A person shall be qualify to be elected or selected to be a representative if,” however before it was state in plain English, all of the eligible factors, the second sentence began and thus began to outline all the characteristics that disqualify or make a person ineligible to be so elected or selected. It makes much sense to list of characteristic which will make a person ineligible for the reason they are few. To do otherwise will be to long and will only add to the congestion of the piece of legislation. So to avoid such congestion they went on to outline those characteristics that mad an individual ineligible.

Hence the reason why phase “and shall not be so Qualify to be so elected or selected unless he is able to” proceed the opening phase. What does this means? If an individual do not possess the characteristic that disqualify him form eligibility qualify you.

Now, let us take a little time to analyze the second portion of the paragraph. This paragraph outlined in detail the characteristics that disqualify an individual from being selected or elected to public political office and they are divided into two categories.

1. The disable which is specified by disability
   · “He must be able to speak” (none speakers are omitted)
   · Incapacitated by blindness (any blind person)
   · “Incapacitated by physical means” (anyone with a physical incapacity which is wide and vague)
   
2. And the other category that disqualifies an individual is illiteracy (English Language): ones inability to read or write.

Every person with an open mind is aware that Sign Language and brail are universal language and in this world with its educational and technological advancement have created an environment where a blind person may be unable to see and a hearing impaired person may be unable to hear but they are not disabled. In many cases they are more able then many who has all of their senses in tact.

What I will like to know why is the person who has a physical incapacity disqualify from holding an elected or appointed office?

Allan H. F. Palmer The Paradox

Let me invite you into my world, by this I mean let me share some events with you events that engulfed my activities over the pass two years. It is with this in mind that I hope you enjoy yourself watching this video as much as I enjoyed living the role as was captured by some of my friends. Remember I love you and I will continue to be your voice as long as Jehovah gave me life and the ability to speak.

The Words Of Larance Ramesh Maharaj

Extracts From A Speech Delivered at the NDP 29th Annual Convention in Kingstown on

KINGSTON, St Vincent: Larance Ramesh Maharaj, former Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday said that Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves is one of some Caribbean Prime Ministers, who in recent times have shown signs of becoming dictators.

“As a matter of fact, I have a duty to tell you this. Whenever a Prime Minister decides to tell his people that whatever you do in the court … I go give you hell, that’s the sign of a dictator….”


He said that some Prime Ministers take away people’s land without proper compensation and without any regard for the decisions of the court of law. According to him, Papa Doc used to do that - a clear sign of dictatorship - that is probably galloping in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.


Making reference to the constitution of SVG, Maharaj noted that it clearly states that citizens desire that the society will be so ordered as to recognize the principles of democracy, free institutions, and social justice and equality for all.


Elaborating on the manner in which some Caribbean Prime Minister publicly abuse members of civil society who oppose them, including the media and non governmental bodies, Maharaj spoke of a number of incidents involving the prime minister of SVG.


“… in my research, I heard that your Prime Minister called people ‘chattering nabobs in bars’ because people criticize him.


“I understand, too, your Prime Minister didn’t like what the people were saying how he stuck his middle finger up, and he said in answer to you the people … he has a perfect middle finger.


“I heard when members of the media and other people criticize him, although that might be on a few occasions, he said that is learned helplessness. He said when the NGOs stood up to prevent him from giving what they said was the Tobago Cays to what they alleged were friends, he said that they were dishonest, liars, and terrorists…”


“So, what Dictators do, some of them start to call themselves ‘Papa’…” Maraaj said echoing the word “Pap” used by Prime Minister Gonsalves when referring to persons involved in the Ottley Hall Inquiry who had taken members of the commission to court.

Is Ralph Gonsalves Buying Our Youths Loyalty and their Freedom?

Faces of Oppression, modern day totalitairians. The teacher and his student

Once again, My Prime Minister, the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Ralph E. Gonsalves has demonstrated to the nation, the region, and the entire world that he is a man who has lost his influence, is without feasible plans and relevant political ideas. Once again by his action he has shown to all the size of his mentality and the level of his integrity, when he used the state funds to buy the favor, love and affection of the people. In his weaken state, he spared no effort to feeding the greed of the greedy, those whose loyalty has a price; he used the state money to manipulating the poverty of the poor, those among us whose best effort never pays off; and he introduced our youths to free money in order to prey on their naivety, in his attempt to make the youths of the nation mental slaves. In other words; Gonsalves is squandering the resources of the state, so he can continue to have his own way with the people and their finances; he is playing the game of give them a little to keep them hoping you will give them more.

So on the grand occasion of the thirtieth anniversary of national independence, when Ralph as the nation’s leader, should have embraced his role as setter of positive trends and chief role model, he once again forfeit the opportunity to demonstrated what it meant to have and exhibit national pride. The Prime Minister could have taken this opportunity to instilling in our youths that sense of Pride while, inspired our them to ask not what their country can do for them but what they can and are willing to do for their country. However, when he announced that he is going to give every school child two hundred dollars; the Prime Minister only give to our youths a fish and only succeeded in satisfy their hunger or feeding them for a day.

In doing so, he planted and provided nutrients to the seeds, which could creating within the nation's youths, a nagging psychological dependence, a dependency which may germinate into the “get something for nothing attitude.” The same attitude that have caused many of our people to be robbing, killing and indulging in many other criminal activities, the same attitude that is responsible for the laziness that is now spreading though out the country and is responsible for the low level of productivity that we have been experiencing for some time now.

Give a man a fish and you will feed him for a day, teach him how to fish and you will feeds him for a life time. This sentence deal with the investment we make in others daily, Should Government give the youths two hundred dollars which they will gladly take and satisfy their spending needs for a short time with no rational objective in mind. Did Ralph gift succeeded in feeding our youths for a life time? From his action, does Ralph appear to care about the youth's future? What national or long term objective did Ralph had in mind when he give away the money? Couldn't Ralph find a more feasible method of using that money, that would have better serve the long term and future needs of the youths? This is what leaders do; they invest in their people future; they use the state’s resources to make the people more productive and independent citizens. Ralph is aware that productive and independent citizens always develop confident and seek ways to apply their intelligence. There is something about productivity that carries with it confidence, independence, intelligence and innovation. It is no secret; that confidence, intelligent and innovative people have to be governed intelligently.

Did Ralph Gonsalves give any just or intelligent reason for the way he use the people's resources? Did he say where the money came from or where the money will come from? Was this gift a decision of cabinet?

Anyone with a good knowledge of Ralph Gonsalves’ behavior can answer the above questions with a high level of accuracy. What was the intent behind this sudden and unexpected gift? Is Ralph trying to buy himself the loyalty of the youths, while purchasing himself some yes votes and on a larger scale a piece of the future? Although that may be true, Ralph is more occupy in living out the inhibited desires of his fore parents: the Portuguese. I truly believe that a person heritage never really leaves him or her but circumstances may prevent or inhibits that person from living out their natural desires and the real intent of their heart.

I am of the opinion that Ralph Gonsalves like his forefather Aniam Concalvez, (pay attention to the last name as well as the amount to letters and the pronunciation of the name) the man who in 1414 began the export trade of African slaves; is hell bent in making Vincentian his slaves. The primary principle that is employed in making a person a slave is to rob him of his independence, self-respect and self-reliance. Although most people will not willingly give up their independence, self-respect and their self-reliance they can be tricked or cultured into doing so.

Ralph Gonsalves is bent on tricking as well as culturing our youths into voluntarily becoming his slaves, and his specially design constitution will ensure that like we will remain slaves forever. This may sound outrageous to you. Like Willie Lynch, Ralph has already divided the nation, he has put colleagues against colleagues, families at odds with each other, neighbors at social and political war with each other. Ralph is going to get and have his own way by any means necessary.

Is Ralph Gonsalves capable of doing this, does he love power enough to do this. Remember the only way to keep a slave is to keep the slaves divided. Are you willing to become the slave of Ralph E. Gonsalves?

St. Vincent Independence: A Time For Reflection

The 27th of October 2009, Marks a significant mile stone for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines; this date marks thirty years since St. Vincent and the Grenadines obtained political independence. Normally; such significant milestone as thirty years of independence is marked by reminiscing on the positive accomplishment of the people and the country on a whole and serious contemplation of the way forward. Unfortunately; not all such milestones can be considered an accomplishment, for an accomplishment is not measure by mare years of existence.

In my reflection, although it is difficult I will not reflect on the lack of accomplishments such as the fact that our current Prime Minister Ralph E. Gonsalves was the first in the history of this country to have criminal charges (rape and Sexual Assault) brought against him while still in office. I will not go into the fact that many of the country’s males, who once parading about as chest beating, strong men; have been proven and were exposed as greedy opportunist, who were seeking a way to use the trust of the people, to create an environment that was conducive to them raping and plundering the nation they claim to love and are loyal to.

Neither, will I speak of the inconsistency of a Government that invested scarce funds in projects such as a Cross County Road and abandon it after spending millions of the nation’s money not because it was feasible but because they could, or the fact that the Government is rushing head first to build an international airport and is unable to access funding for that financially intensive project, from the international lending agencies that were set up to assisting third world countries embarking on projects such as the international airport, by providing loans and grants.

I will not profane this solemn and patriotic occasion, by betraying my country and address the real state of criminal actives which includes murder and now kidnapping that has taken over this poor little nation and the fact that we have cultivate a generation of young people that do not respect anything or anyone; a generation of youths that willingly and unwillingly participate in the unnecessary termination of each other.

Surely I will not delve into and deal with the heavy handedness of those who are associated with the new discriminatory and flawed document that is the proposed new constitution; a document that will be presented to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in a referendum on 25th November 2009.

But instead I will demonstrate my patriotism and celebrate the fact that all is not lost. I know all is not yet lost, even though the youths are bombarded by thousand of negative role model on which to pattern their lives; however, there are many individual who has risen above all of the mess that is suffocating our nation and have shone like a beacon beckoning the lost to a better way. St. Vincent and the Grenadines; I present to you a man whose character, sense of commitment, honor, respect and judgment I love and appreciate tremendously; a man who is husband of one wife, a man who have risen and kept himself above the common behaviors that contribute to the decline of strong moral and integrity, it is with honor that I present to you: The Rt. Hon. Arnhem Eustace, the leader of the opposition.

A man, who by choice continue to live a positive life; a life that is laced with compassion, love, caring, and selflessness; a man, who for many years have struggle on behalf of all Vincentian; even those who claim to love St. Vincent and are busy flushing the country down the toilet.

St. Vincent I present to you: Amnesia Richards; a simple young lady, whose youthful ideals are still alive and well; ideals that are on display for her peers and other Vincentians to see. Here is a fresh example, that demonstrate to the youths it is OK to be different, it is OK to hold fast and live by your ideals and there is nothing wrong with being strong even in the face of intimidating political attacks and criticism.

To all the people who are struggling against that which is wrong and in their own little way are trying to make a difference in the land they are committed to; thank you and keep up the good work. To all of the “honest, hardworking” teachers, police officers, Sanitation workers, farmers, civil and public servants who daily give of their best to the people they serve, I say thank you and continue to bless St. Vincent with your integrity and the positivity that you bring to this nation.

It is with an optimistic heart, a belly of hope and faith in the people that I know, as Vincentians, we will redeem ourselves. I am confident that the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in true Vincy Style; will exhibit the strength I know we have buried deep within us, and we will demonstrate such strength by taking the steps that is needed by doing that which is right.

I hope that we will begin our redemption by voting no in the referendum on 25th September 2009. A vote no, is a vote against totalitarian rule; a vote no, is a vote against politicians manipulating the Justice system; a vote no, is a vote against the indiscriminate sexploitation of your children male and female; a vote no, is a vote against a dishonest government; last but not lease a vote no, is a vote against the flawed proposed constitution.

I have the confidence that today, on this day of our thirtieth anniversary of independence, Vincentian are going to reflect on life in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as it is, compare life today with life as it use to be, then we are going to send a loud and clear message that we deserves better than what we are presently handed. For the strength of a people cannot be manipulated by no person, or institution political or otherwise but most of all, it cannot be bought or sold; we are not for sale.

Have We Adopted the Attitudes of Fools?

My people have become a nation of weak, lazy, handout loving, pretenders. Everyday; shamelessly, we live a façade and; shamelessly, we call the lie we live: life. We try to fool everyone but we only succeed in fooling is ourselves. Constantly; we sit back and we watch generation after generation self-destruct. We are successful in Zombiefying the minds of our youths with our laziness, with our culture we mummified their aspirations, and with our negative behavior we embalmed their consciousness, while reinforcing the importance of pretence.

We teach the next generation how to be weak by our examples. For us to lift an objective voice against that which is wrong, have become to strenuous a task for us to perform; to expense the energy to stand up in opposition against poor values, moral, and ethics will cause a dramatic rapture in our coronary artery, which in turn will result in a massive cardiac failure. Yes we choose to be victims to our weakness thus committing ourselves to slavery: self imposed slaves; for to be a slaves to our weakness can only put us in subjection to those who are even weaker than ourselves.

Like rigomortis, laziness has taken over our being, yet our desires to accumulate and the passion of greed are allowed to grow bigger and bigger with each passing seconds and all of our efforts are geared towards keep up with the Jones’. We have reduced ourselves to a people with no motivation, for our weakness have doomed us to failure; our creative juices have curdled and spoiled from a lack of use, for we can no longer be independent in our thoughts, expressions or actions and our will have become brittle form inactivity/inaction, for we have lost all hope. Sadly; in a gamble, we have sold our pride, dignity, integrity and our children to anyone who is able to provide us with the means to keep up with the Jones’: even pedophiles. We lend to our children a permanent trauma as we become mental but more so practical whores of the lowest order.

Now after we have destroy our own mentality and corrupt our values, we can only view the success of other with eyes green with envy, Our faces are disfigured by smirks of jealousy, and bitterness chases youthfulness far, far away from our being. Greed finds room in the weak, laziness that is our mind; for we are always getting; however we are never satisfied. Now we are victims of our foolish conception and for such we have been disfigured and reduced to the little people we are today; people of little integrity, little honesty, little pride but big on pretence. That is all we are, it is all we have, it is all we have become but I hope it is not all we can be.