By Robert Hall

By now, most of you have become accustomed to hearing my voice and views on “Expressions” and occasionally seeing me on television.  Few of you might recall that several years ago I was a regular columnist in one of our newspapers.  Those columns proved almost as entertaining, informative, educational and controversial as “Expressions”.
Today, I write with a certain amount of sadness as I reflect on gains made verses opportunities lost and the dark shadow that has engulfed the land.  Deep down inside, I am convinced that better days are ahead if we do the right thing.
As I write this article, the words of a hymn writer come to mind: “Once to everyman and nation comes the moment to decide; on the strife if truth with falsehood, for the good or evil side; some great cause some great decision, offing each the bloom or blight. And the choice goes by forever, twixt that darkness and that light.”
Right now we are being called upon to express our views (though not binding) on our Constitution.  I have not displayed much interest in the
discussions because we had a Constitution that is workable.
The Constitution did not fail us. Some of our leaders failed and did not adhere to the spirit of the Constitution.  The answer is simple; bring back
the Constitution that did not fail us and deal with those politicians on both sides as well  as those persons in the public service and in the
private sector who may not have conducted themselves in an ethical manner.
The courts may decide on what laws may have been broken (I do not suggest that all former Ministers have broken the law).
What I do say, is that several former Ministers certainly conducted the affairs of the country in an irresponsible and reckless way.  Any
intelligent person must have concluded that there are strong moral grounds for those who have been accused to step aside until, if and when they can clear their names.
I find it offensive, bold and brassy for some to act as if they did nothing wrong and to suggest that they are best able to lift us from the
current situation for which they were the chief architect.
Several months ago the P.D.M. held its convention and chose its leader.  The PNP is about to do the same in August.  The PNP has put forward some capable individuals for leadership.  As in every case there is good, better, best.  I have, from the outset, endorsed Mr. Carlos Simmons, Q.C., for the leadership of the PNP.  He brings with him tested leadership and respect in the legal field.  His cool temperament is an invaluable asset in negotiations.
It is not the loud noise and shouting that get things done, contrary to what some believe.  The quiet resolve of Gandhi changed India. The peaceful nonviolent methods of Martin Luther King and others did more to achieve equal rights for blacks in America that the violent confrontations. Rosa Parks’ quiet stand (or sit down) changed bussing segregation.  Further more given many blaze on the battlefield, but it is
at the negotiating table where conflicts are resolved.
I do not question Carlos’ loyalty or love for his party and country.  Those who question him should take a look in the mirror.
I recommend Mr. Carlos Simons to you without reservation as a man of integrity and ability, as a God fearing man and a decent human being.  May God help us all to make the right decision.
“A chain is as strong as its weakest link”. Mr. Simons can’t do it all by himself.  He must surround himself with men and women of honour and chart a new course.
May God save the party and may God save the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Posted July 23 2010