Way too much long talk Dr. Byron-Cox!

20.JUNE.08

Editor: I have been following with great interest the intellectual, and often controversial, publications submitted by Dr. Richard Byron-Cox. He has stimulated discourse and debate, as well as animosity, in response to many of his assertions and viewpoints. {{more}} I have to admit that in the heat of the most tantalizing of topics, a smile of admiration often plays at the corners of my lips because here is a man who stands true to his convictions, besides which he is no less than a role model to all of us who know him.

Yet, it is with reproach that I pen this letter. Dr. Byron-Cox wrote a most astute article last week regarding the political divide in St. Vincent. He was for the most part on target, as usual. He levied relevant criticism at Gonsalves and the ULP, while presenting equally balanced objection to the modus operandi of the NDP. This being the case, Dr. Cox is able to see as clearly as any educated person that SVG stands “between the devil and the deep blue sea” as we say here in America. My question to the learned doctor is this: You present the problem with clarity, but what are your proposed solutions? While I am impressed with the rhetoric, herein lies the rub – this man of vision, international experience and diplomacy clearly articulates a reluctance to do the obvious – get pragmatically involved.

With such critical need for good governance, moral leadership and the best interest of St. Vincent at heart, Dr. Byron-Cox should invest the time and energy necessary in the formation of a political party of likewise honorable citizens. If not, St. Vincent will “go to hell in a hand basket”.

Dr. Byron-Cox should, therefore, consider putting his money where his mouth is; otherwise, my final words to the good doctor – put up, or shut up. To use the phrase he so nicely coined: “Sitting on the fence is not an option”.

John Smith