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upfront that compensation is a non-starter, that could be worrying, and sends a loud signal. It is that such men are not easily managed, cannot be controlled or easily manoeuvred. They will call things as they see it; have little patience for fools; rock the boat; and smash icons. They will not stand nonsense from anyone. Perhaps, this is the greatest concern of all.

I believe there are large grains of truth embedded in all of the foregoing, given the bland disinterest. I think that President Granger does himself, his vision, and his government an injustice, each time a wellqualified patriot steps forward freely and for free, but is locked out. This is what this country needs: not more money-oriented men, not more power-driven parties, but more altruistic individuals of the highest calibre and unquestionable principles.

These are the same few persons who wish to contribute; they wish to see this country work and function at a higher level. They stand ready to do their part. It is why I venture to suggest that it is a colossal error to utter ringing appeals for more hands on deck in the first instance; and then ignore and shut the door on those who really care, in the next.

This much should be made clear: positions and pay scales have neither value nor interest for a handful of Guyanese, myself included, who have made their mark and score elsewhere. This might be difficult to digest for jaded cynical citizens. But it is what it is, and not subject to change. Disbelieving Guyanese need to appreciate one last thing: for some of us, there can be no other way. There is no price tag; and sometimes to beholders that might just be too costly and too unaffordable for the powers that be.