I recently read Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha’s response to allegations made by WIN Party Leader Azruddin Mohamed regarding the lavish wealth of both the Minister and his son, suggesting it is rooted in corruption. I must admit, the audacity of the Minister’s defense made me smile, especially as he turned the tables on Mohamed, urging him to introspect on his own alleged corrupt practices.
In disputes between former allies, I believe it’s wise to respect the insights they bring from their experiences. However, one cannot overlook the troubling reality that has become disturbingly normal in our society: politicians enjoying opulent lifestyles shortly after taking office while the masses they are supposed to serve continue to grapple with varying degrees of poverty.
One must ask frankly: Why are only the Minister and his inner circle seemingly blessed with the fortunes that come with obscene wealth in such a short period? And this question extends to all who participate in these practices.
It is remarkable how those, like the Minister, who have ascended to power often appear to cultivate a sudden talent for industry, accumulating wealth only after becoming stewards of our national resources. If thrift and hard work are indeed the hallmarks of these public servants, why do they not share their secrets and best practices with the public, enabling all of us—who they claim to serve—to achieve a comfortable, if not lavish, lifestyle? Isn’t this the essence of true political leadership and stewardship?
Consider how many educated young professionals in business have achieved the financial success akin to that of the Minister’s son. Is it possible he has access to radically different opportunities than they do?
The reality is stark: politics affords those within the highest echelons of power access to both illicit and illicitly sourced wealth. Their children, too, benefit from advantages that the rest of our children could only dream of, regardless of their intelligence, ambition, or industriousness.
As I reflect on the past, I am reminded of former President Burnham, who, when accused of misappropriating the nation’s resources for personal gain, boldly challenged anyone to investigate his holdings, even allowing institutions to seek disclosure. Cheddi Jagan, aware of the baseless nature of these allegations, refrained from taking up the challenge.
Our truth is clear: while some individuals err in their attempts to advance the collective interest, others seem to flourish in advancing their personal agendas.
Ronald J. Daniels
