The Piranha Mentality

Details

Rawlston Pompey

Monday, 02 July 2012 02:30

By Rawlston Pompey

They may claim no attributes of heavenly angels, yet they have displayed none consistent with satanic behaviors.

They entertain no malice or ill-will and shared no conspiracy or connivance in that which may bring harm to others. They had seemingly committed themselves to act only in the national interest and for the common good. Thus, they bear no envy and grudge, yet they must walk a tight-rope as they carry their individual crosses within national borders. They are aware that there has always been danger in some environment and that the political environment appeared to be the most destructive of all. Increasingly, they were seen as the more conscientious and candidly-spoken Members of Parliament on issues under legislative considerations.

WHO ARE THEY?
In the eyes of many citizens, they are , Honourable Molwyn Joseph, Wilmoth Daniel, Gaston Browne, Chanlah Codrington, Eleston Adams and Asot Michael; …Senators Lennox Weston, Arthur Nibs and Sylvia O’Mard and aspirants former Senator Maureen Payne-Hyman and Daven Joseph. Then there were still others- James ‘Tanny’ Roses and Wigley Georges and former ambassador Lionel 'Max' Hurst. These individuals appeared not to have escaped the attention of those close to them and those far away from them. These were the ones who appeared characteristically courageous in their articulation on sensitive and critical matters of State, even when the issues were likely to be deemed contentious and/or controversial. That said they lacked no personal ambition and most had demonstrated that they had every intention of remaining as reasonable human beings and may not be cowed into submission by treacherous challenges posed by their members.

ORGANIZATIONAL CONSEQUENCES
However, realizing that they may have come under microscopic organizational and public scrutiny, they appeared acutely mindful of the concept called “…POLITICAL JUDGMENT” and the likely impact of “…ORGANIZATIONAL CONSEQUENCES” that may descend upon them at a moment’s notice for their respective individuality and public stance on critical matters of State. Nonetheless, they may be seen for their independent expressed positions, open-mindedness and objectivity. These, undoubtedly, are essential to organizational reform, re-direction, attitudinal change and consistent with “…team building; …group cohesiveness; …resilience; …unity of purpose and success. Ironically, they were more often seen as adversaries for not saying “…YES” when the principle of rationality and the dictates of their conscience had moved them to say “…NO” to that which may have been inspired by impulse and/or irrationality.

DECISIVENESS
In a political environment only the pragmatic, mildly ruthless and decisive leaders succeed. Theories and principles seldom produce desired results. Hence, lest public officials and/or leaders are doomed to failure, acting outside the “…right psychological moment,” compounded by “…indecision” may result in derailment of set organizational goals and/or objectives. Succinctly put by the MIGHTY SPARROW “…To do or not to do, that is the question.” In other words “…DECISIVENESS” is key to the execution of any initiative. Philosophically, if a fighter was to be defeated that the other may be victorious, then opponents must be so disabled that they may not be able to offer stiff resistance.

FEROCIOUS OMNIVOROUS
The PIRANHA, estimated to be over sixty species, was said to be one of the most “…ferocious omnivorous fresh water fish,” flourishing in its natural habitat in the rivers of South America. In Venezuela, it is called “…Caribes.” Research has shown that in its feeding mode, the killer Piranhas swarmed prey with their “…specialized razor-sharp teeth” that leave only the bony skeleton after a quick meal. It was also revealed that Piranhas seldom attack their own, except when they are “…trapped in captivity.” In the wilds of Africa, such behavioral instinct by humans may be called “…cannibalism.”

PIRANHA MENTALITY
Humans invariably, whether instinctively, calculatedly and/or expediently, do adapt the “…PIRANAH MENTALITY.” Not only do they attack opponents for different reasons, but frequently their very own colleagues are vulnerable to attacks, either for touting different ideology, philosophy or agenda, as opposed to group aims, goals and/or objectives. Seemingly a “…PIRANHA-TYPE MENTALITY” appeared to have developed among the various programme hosts over the several contentious issues an aborted “…Motion of No Confidence” was intended to address.

THE CALAMITOUS AFFAIR
The derailed “…Motion of no Confidence” against Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Baldwin Spencer was reportedly partially blamed on the proposed “…MOVER,” and Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Honourable Lester B. Bird and Member of Parliament Honourable Asot Michael for their role  in the “…calamitous affair.” This had provoked several public squabbles among organizational members and had provoked widespread public discussions and constant media reports. This commentary, however, seeks to continue from the “…Brown Boy in the House” and the response of Member of Parliament Honourable Asot Michael, including subsequent developments regarding pertinent issues.



FLIRTING WITH DANGER
Subsequent to the failed “…No Confidence Motion,” the spotlight had been shifted to Member of Parliament Honourable Gaston Browne. Critics opined that he may have unwittingly “…flirted with Danger,” in his bold attempt to “…court or woo” an equally astute and defiant Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer into acceding to the conduct of a “…public or independent inquiry into the Wadadli Power Plant (WPP). The latter had previously made it abundantly clear that there was no necessity for a Commission of Inquiry into the seemingly controversial “…WPP.” Even with its admitted myriad of operational difficulties by senior Staff of the APUA, this position was also taken by Her Excellency Governor General Dame Louise Lake-Tack, when a formal request was made by Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition Honourable Lester Bird for her independent intervention.

HEAT OF COLLEAGUES
Not only that the Honourable Member appeared to be facing the “…heat of colleagues” and members of the wider community, but also that of the Honourable Prime Minister who appeared to have contradicted an early release as to what “…may or may not” have transpired at a “…one-on-one meeting” with the Honourable Member on the contentious issue. Citing that the Prime Minister had “…acknowledged the gravamen of the issue,” [Caribarena….]. Subsequently, Prime Minister Spencer came out swinging that the only consideration made was an offer to “…take the MP’S concerns to Cabinet.” Ironically, it was the said august body with some of its members publicly stating that that there was no need for a public inquiry with assurances to defeat the Motion, if it was “…MOVED” as listed on the House Order Paper.

GOOD NAME
Respecting the Honourable ASOT MICHAEL, “…hound him;” …steal his purse and rob him of anything else; …his constituency boundary and some of his constituents.” These he most certainly may have considered “…TRASH,” however, leave him with his “…GOOD NAME” and of equal importance, respect his human dignity and worth. It may have been a threat to these that had provoked a carefully worded warning that was electronically circulated to, and among colleagues.  He clearly understood his “…creation in the image and likeness of his Creator and existence as a reasonable creature in being.” Irrespective of his aspirations and his fears of hounding, no attempt may be made by anyone in turning him into an animal. Maybe, he may be made part of the Hadeed clan, but certainly not a “…GOAT.”

SERVICE TO THE NATION
He would prefer to remain trim and fit that he may achieve “…Self-Actualization,” that he may continue serving the nation as a patriotic, loyal, faithful and devoted Parliamentarian. Thus, whether it was for “…political expediency or for becoming part of the national food chain,” the aggrieved Member of Parliament appeared determined that there was no desire on his part to be evolved into a ruminant, likened to a domesticated “…HE-GOAT” that may be slaughtered for meat as the economy contracts or as the temperature within his organization rises and the vicious attitude of colleagues increases to an intolerable level.

DINING ON GOAT MEAT
Hence, it may have been apparent to him that a “…MOTION TO SLAUGHTER” could be tabled among his colleagues and that he could end up like “…filet fish on a dish.” He may also have said that those who may have been wishing to “…dine on goat meat,” could have easily obtained it at the prestigious “…VERANDAH RESTAURANT.” This resort is located near to the edge of the pristine shallow waters at the LONG BAY BEACH and the water made choppy apparently when the “…DEVIL” was mischievously raised or disturbed from quietude at the legendary “…BRIDGE” on the eastern or Atlantic   side of the island.  However, should the Member be considered for dinner, he had declared an intention to hurt stomachs by “…SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER” [Senator Lennox Weston]. He had promised to do so, seemingly not only “…WHOLLY,” but frighteningly and bitterly.

GLUTTONOUS EATING
Should there be over indulgence and gluttonously devoured like “…PIRANHAS,” barring a festive occasion, consumers may experience side effects either of a virus or a bacteria that may precipitate instant “…diarrheic condition.” This would necessarily impelled unexpected visits either to the Mount St. John Medical Centre or at some suburban private medical facility for attention. Apart from singing “…DECK    THE HALLS” of Parliament with anyone named Molly or Holly, then expect him to sing- FA-LA-LA-LA-LA.” They too may be forced to hold their stomach and say like SANFORD and SON “…Elizabeth, I am coming.” In Courts of Law, if credibility was to be established; …testimony was to be admitted and believed, such was required to be given “…TRUTHFULLY” under Oath or Affirmation. In the Halls of Justice, the “…TRUTH” eliminates the crime of “…PURJURY” and “…MISCARRIAGE OF JUSTICE.” It builds reputation, image, character confidence and trust.  Therefore, it is ideal to the proper administration and dispensation of justice. In other forums, the “…TRUTH HURTS.”



DIVIDE AND RULE
Experience has taught that improper timing had resulted in “…pre-mature abortion” of carefully thought out and planned missions.”  This had been known to have provoked the inevitable- “…loss of confidence; …irreparable harm; …suspicions of collusion; …speculations; … dissention and consternation and strained relations. Within otherwise cohesive grouping, there was the inevitability of “…factions; …cliques; …news-mongering; …backbiting and retardation.” Further, when provoked by antagonism, these had often inspired a spirit of hostility and resentment, equally as much as they breathe enmity. Ultimately, there may be organizational rifts, isolation and/or ostracization. In given situations, these were ideally suited to those with the philosophy to “…DIVIDE AND RULE.”

AGONY OF DEFEAT
Within national borders, more specifically, the electoral process, one may recall the recent “…By-Election to fill the parliamentary seat suddenly left vacant, consequent upon the death of Honourable CHARLESWORTH SAMUEL. In that instant incident and electoral contest, there were three likely contenders, Honourable CHESTER HUGHES, former Senator OSBERT FREDERICK and attorney-at-law RALPH FRANCIS.” There was apparent overwhelming support for the then Senator HUGHES. Since there may have been results that appeared pregnant with adversity to all other candidates-party affiliates and independent, except contender RALPH FRANCIS, they had all feared the “…AGONY OF DEFEAT.” The former Senator appeared to have decide on opting for an electoral “…ABORTION.” Consequently, potential candidates must give acute considerations to the race to Parliament and similarly Movers of MOTIONS may consider the chances of success and govern themselves accordingly. Notwithstanding, it was said that “…nothing beats a trial but failure.”

STRATEGIC DECISION
The latter of the two other parliamentary prospects, no doubt, may have seen futility in the electoral exercise and “…loss of deposit.” Notwithstanding those possibilities, such also may have been a “…STRATEGIC DECISION” by the former Senator not to vie for membership within the House of Representatives. Thus, there may have been an understanding that with merely months away from the March 12, 2009 General Elections, “…ABORTING” the contest, it may have resulted in shattered hopes, dreams and aspirations. Eventually what may have been most feared had occurred to both FREDERICK and RALPH FRANCIS in that election- a defeat of some magnitude.

GEORGE ‘RICK’ JAMES
Even some apparent provocative rhetorical comments recently came from Secretary of the Free and Fair Elections League (FFEL), the erudite GEORGE ‘Rick’ JAMES. He had demonstrated that though it might be sufficient to brainwash society’s “…simpletons, gullible and naive,” he had shown a level of intelligence and maturity, that he will not be “…easily fooled,” neither by adjustments to the electoral boundaries and processes, nor how Motions may be professionally pursued, void of “…amateurish schoolboy behavior,” [Caribarena-Let’s fool the people: June 13, 2012]. He had given clear warning of his intention to go straight into a litigious mode for any comment deemed defamatory.

NO CONFIDENCE
Until recently, regional peoples- those who governed and those Loyal to Her Majesty in Opposition, had only spoken to “…lack of confidence” in those who were elected to govern. There had been much talks on “…VOTES OF NO CONFIDENCE” in Trinidad and Tobago, but seemingly the multi-party membership which grouped together to form a “…Coalition Government,” neither had the “…numbers necessary or the political will” in their desire to oust the administration of Prime Minister Honourable KAMLA PERSAUD-BISSESSAR.

EMBATTLED TILMAN THOMAS
Then disgruntled and/or discontented Government Parliamentarians in the Spice Isle of Grenada with similar desire, appeared to have “…savored the moments, prestige, novelty and associated parliamentary privileges being enjoyed as Members of the government. They narrowly saved the day, both for themselves and a seemingly embattled Prime Minister Honourable TILMAN THOMAS. They knew that their fate rest in the minds and ultimately the “…thumb, middle and index fingers” (hold pen/pencil) of the Grenadian electorate.

ONE-MANISM
Added to the list where “…Confidence Motions” were concerned, had been Montserrat’s Premier Honourable REUBEN MEADE. The dramatic developments within the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda may have provided impetus to Montserrat’s Opposition Leader, Honourable DONALDSON ROMEO.  His group had accused Premier MEADE of among other concerns “…ONE-MANISM” in the decision-making process. Such accusation cited critical matters and decisions made were said to be adverse to the island’s “…economic and political future,” [Caribarena: June 16, 2012]. He had subsequently survived the “…Confidence Motion,” seemingly aided by “…organizational treachery” by one of his colleagues, who reportedly opposed his team’s move to oust the Premier, Honourable Reuben Meade.

ABORTION DEFINED
For a working definition, it was considered useful in researching the Encarta Dictionary, which has defined “…ABORTION” as (1) “…An operation or other intervention to end a pregnancy by removing an embryo or fetus from the womb.” The same term when used disparagingly was defined as (2) “…An offensive term for something so badly done or made that it is a complete failure.” For lighter moments, though not necessarily plausible and/or readily acceptable, it means (3) “…Cancellation of mission.” Consequent upon the latter definitions, critics had posited that the failed “…No Confidence Motion” may have been pre-maturely aborted for expediency.”

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CRICKET MATCHES ABORTED
ABORTION may take many forms. For instance, when internationally renowned cricket commentator TONY COZIER announced that a day’s play or an entire cricket match had been aborted, it was usually the result of “…inclemency of weather or “…an extremely badly prepared cricket pitch or outfield.” Evidence of these may have been seen from the recent fiasco at the recently constructed cricket stadium, fittingly named after legendary cricket hero, SIR VIVIAN RICHARDS. That situation saw a test match between the West Indies and England “…aborted after just 10 balls.” This also saw the imposition of a 12-month test match ban on March 17, 2009 by the sport’s governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC). Such was handed down after it had described the Outfield as “…unfit” and abhorred the “…farcial scenes” that had played out. The ICC had also dished out “…an official warning to the West Indies Cricket Board of Control (WICB) for its lack of proper preparation [News Track- India: March 17, 2009].

CUTTING DEALS
Cutting Deals has always been associated with both “…legitimate” and “…illegitimate” transactions. Thus, such had been the experiences of the “…good, bad, ugly, the indifferent and the crooked.”  Some deals had been laced with suspicions; …some shrouded in secrecy. When the Honourable Prime Minister DR, BALDWIN SPENCER recently convened an extraordinary Cabinet meeting with his Ministers including his almost estranged Health Minister Honourable WILMOTH DANIEL, it was revealed that”… an amicable deal” was struck, allowing for “…bad blood to be drained from clogged up veins.” That was perfectly legitimate, but how deep “...hatchets were buried” was not immediately known. Pundits, however, believed that they may not be kept too far from arm’s length in the event of an unexpected “…ambush in the night” [Bob Marley].

THE GOOD CITIZEN
In other instances, “…some Deals were said to be mysterious and treacherous; …some deceptive and full of trickery. These were said to be “…egregiously corrupt” and against the common and national good. It was not surprising that a businessman was assisting the Customs Department in unearthing evidence respecting possible internal skulduggerous activities, likely to affect revenue collections. When the Mighty Sparrow sung about the “…GOOD CITIZEN,” he was suggesting that they were the ones “…Defrauding Customs Duty;” and “…while the government penalizing you and me, the so-called”…good citizens violate the Law and had the Law protecting them at the same time.”

DEALS AND SQUEALS
It might be naïve to think that such were not all part of the human experiences and the harsh realities of life. Indeed, they are. Cutting does not always involve Deals. Thus, while citizens brood over “…DEALS and SQUEALS,” pundits had surmised that in the sane mind of Prime Minister Honourable DR. BALDWIN SPENCER, any “…CUTTING” might very well be in the Public Service, as had been the case on earnings- “…Benefits and Allowances.” Outside professional competencies, Tax Reform Consultant EVERETTE CHRISTIAN appeared to have possessed the requisite knowledge, experience and expertise, necessary for detailed public explanations and/or sensitization.

DUBIOUS ASSUMPTIONS
The Prime Minister was fully aware that “…CUTTING” those benefits were likely to affect disposable income, consumerized spending and the quality of life. He also knew that it was necessary for continued governance and requisite expenditure on social services and conditionalities to meet the nation’s financial obligations. In actuality, Prime Minister SPENCER was adamant that no considerations had been given to the “…DUBIOUS ASSUMPTIONS” of “…CUTTING DEALS” outside of parliamentary rules and procedures. Thus, he may wish not to call into question “…the people’s trust and confidence; …his reputation as a leader and integrity. Such may have the effect of risking “…Parliamentary and/or Executive privileges” accessible by him ex officio in future electoral event.

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CONCLUSION
Given the responses of Prime Minister Spencer to the recent meeting with Member of Parliament Honourable Gaston Browne, and the failed “…Motion” that Attorney General Honourable Justin Simon had revealed a notorious “…advancement” by the Honourable Member ASOT MICHAEL in having it aborted, it was a foregone conclusion that there had been, and could be “…NO DEAL” for non-parliamentary abortion. There was no doubt that with the seemingly “…grave missteps” over the issues of the WPP and the derailment of the “…No Confidence Motion,” indecision and “…group divisiveness and antagonism,” driven by the “…PIRANHA-TYPE MENTALITY,” such may lead to incurable or irreparable organizational fracture; …loss of public confidence; and ultimately self-destruction of its seemingly overly ambitious members.

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