Dear Editor
Oil. Good news or bad news? Of course, it is good news that one of the poorer countries in South America such as Guyana has found an element that can perhaps boost the economy and standard of life in the country. However, with such opportunities there arise those people in authority to become greedy and unjust towards the weaker.
Even as mature adults we sometimes become greedy and act like children fighting over a toy instead of looking after the well-being of others.
As a Muslim of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at it is our belief that true justice requires sacrifice. Sacrifice from our leaders and those who are in power. The Holy Quran Chapter 4 Verse 136 emphasis on this matter is laid stating:
“O ye who believe! Be strict in observing justice, and be witnesses for Allah, even through it be against yourselves or against parents and kindred. Whether he be rich or poor, Allah is more regardful of them both that you are. Therefore, follow not low desires so that you may be able to act equitably. And if you conceal the truth or evade it, then remember that Allah is well aware of what you do.”
One has to remember that one day he or she will be accountable before God and will be held accountable towards the way he treated others.
On January 1st 2021, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at worldwide warned such leaders by stating
“May we fulfil our obligations and turn ever more towards God Almighty and raise our standards of worship. May the people of the world, whilst realising the purpose of their creation, fulfil their obligations towards Allah the Almighty. Instead of usurping the rights of others, may they, according to the commandments of Allah the Almighty, fulfil the rights of one another. When materialistic people fail to do so, God Almighty draws their attention towards their responsibilities in His own way. May we, and people of the world understand this important point and make good our life in this world and the next.”
This short statement contains the blueprint of building a better society here in our very own cities in Guyana.
Our people are hopeful that something good will become of this newfound oil. However, if the government and those in power fail to help the layman, the ones in need there would surely be civil unrest because of it.
My prayer is that this news of oil surely benefits Guyana in the best way possible and its people be given comfort because of it.
Regards
Maulana Fahd Peerzada
Linden, Guyana
