Executive member of the People’s Progressive Party, Robert Persaud, said he is willing to serve in whatever capacity is thrust on him, as talk of him being considered as a likely presidential candidate of his party continued to spread.
Guyana Times International was told that Persaud, the agriculture minister, had resisted efforts by party groups who wanted to nominate him as one of the contenders for the presidential candidacy. The PPP has indicated that five of its executive members have offered themselves as potential presidential candidates. These are Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, PPP General Secretary Donald Ramotar, Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran, Presidential Advisor Gail Teixeira, and PPP executive member Moses Nagamootoo.
In a statement to the media on Monday, Persaud said he has been frequently asked about his political future by the media and others, including of recent a large number of young people.
“I wish to express my appreciation to all those, particularly the youth of Guyana, who have offered words of encouragement and who have gone as far as suggesting that I consider running for higher office. As I have indicated before, my overwhelming preoccupation has always been about doing the job to which I am assigned. In pursuing my duty to my country, I have found little time to contemplate personal ambition. My feet have always been rooted on earthly soil, most comfortable in the trenches of struggle and most productive in the fields helping others. My greatest joy has been in serving the people and in ensuring their well-being,” Persaud said in his statement.
He said he remains steadfastly wedded to the vision of the PPP and the president — of a just and harmonious society, wherein all citizens are free to make their contributions to nation-building, to be part of the transformational agenda, and to realise their fullest potential.
“I remain committed to the goal of continued peace, progress, and prosperity for our nation. I remain a loyal and faithful servant of the people (and) my party, and willing to serve in whatever capacity the people, our party, and government so desire,” Persaud declared.
Proud
He said he was proud to be part of a party and government which has many capable individuals who are qualified for the highest office of the land. “As a team player, I have always been willing to serve in whatever capacity my talents are best suited so as to ensure success. While I cannot predict the future, I am absolutely certain that service to my country and party will always remain my principal motivation in life. As has been the case for close to 20 years, the PPP will continue to be my political sanctuary.”
