The Editor, Sir:

The Trafigura affair underscores the need for the fundamental values like truth, integrity and honesty to be the committed characteristics of leaders in every sphere.

The absence of these moral principles has been and continues to be the downfall of governments, political parties, churches, businesses and organisations. Civilisation declines as morality declines. Barefaced lying and deception seem to come so easily for most of our politicians and yet they wonder why they are not trusted. Let us all be reminded that truth is the foundation for trust.

It was most painful and disappointing to hear our senior leaders of the PNP and Government knowing the circumstances, suggesting that they saw nothing wrong with accepting a gift from Trafigura, and hence went on to vehemently justify and defend it. Thinking like this makes us wonder about the many other contractual arrangements with other foreign companies now operating. Political parties, governments, like each of us when we err, must in humility, take responsibility for our actions, acknowledge our wrongs, apologise and take the required steps to correct it.

The resignation of Senator Colin Campbell and a declaration to return the funds are good and right, but a public apology from the leadership of the party, who must bear collective responsibility is required. The government, through the Prime Minister, owes an apology and a truthful explanation to the nation for the full nature of its dealings with Trafigura. There are several questions still to be answered in this whole affair.

Immortal and corrupt practices and the lack of transparency have plagued this nation for too long. Both the PNP and the JLP have clothed themselves in this ugly apparel. The time for change has come for our leaders to declare their hand and tell the nation the truth.

I am, etc.,

AL MILLER

almiler@feltab.org