Just some observations about Mash this year. Part 1

Mash has come and gone but allow me to some casual observations about this year festivities.

First of all, the biggest difference was the absence of some of the usual big time participants from previous years. The global financial crisis must surely now be eating into the pockets of the local companies. The end result was a toned down float parade but with the never-say-die spirit that Guyanese possesses, they still turned out in droves to celebrate this day.

Secondly, the clothing or rather lack of. It would appear as though the reason for Mash, especially to the women is to get as close to naked as possible. Honestly, some of the sights on the road yesterday were quite alluring while some felt acid being spewed on my eyes. Decency was completely thrown away with our woman kind who seemed determined to show as much as possible and gyrate as provocatively and vulgarly as possible, you had to wonder where parental guidance was, but then, what happens when parental guidance descends into lawlessness as well? Yesterday I saw some things that I did not care to see at all. With sagging ‘bobbies’, ropey arms, scrawny legs and Botox immune wrinkled faces you had to wonder what these ‘grand dames’ were trying to prove. Have they no self respect? I would be so ashamed to see my grandmother or mother parading around with a galvanized peacock.

Thirdly, the Rum. If there was star on Mash day, it was this man. DDL recently launched a campaign to reduce underage drinking and the Minister of Health was encouraging persons to consume less alcohol. I can safely say that those messages are falling on deaf ears. The beers, rums and spirits certainly made their presence felt and I for one would be very interested to know if the Guyana Police Force administered any breathalyzer test last night because there is no one that can honestly tell me that some persons who drank weren’t driving afterwards.

New Law -- Don't Drink & Drive

Ok, so there’s a full fledged campaign out from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Guyana Police Force with emphasis on NOT drinking and driving.  Apparently, the new law was passed only recently in Parliament and they’re doing all they can to get the word out.  However, why is it that only now the law is being passed to place consequences on persons driving under the influence of alcohol?  Our lawmakers must really have it easy with the task of actually coming up with new laws.  A simple thing as not drinking and driving could not have been thought of all these years, much less other ‘simple’ ones that just pass idly by.  I guess it’s true what people say – the people in governmental positions in Guyana are just there to ‘fill their pockets’ and do nothing as these discrepancies pass idly by.

Nevertheless, the law is here and bringing with it consequences galore.  

First time offence – a fine of $7,500

Second time offence – loss of your licence for one (1) year

Third time offence – permanent loss of licence with up to one (1) year in jail

So ensure you arrive alive – DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!