A human promoter, Dr Prince Francis Origa has called on well-to-do members of the society to manifest the kindness in them at this moment when the impact of lockdown is having a toll on many families with its attendant difficulties in meeting their daily needs.
He wondered why much has not been heard of political players and philanthropists even when the stay-at-home order put in place by the government to curb the spread of coronavirus is affecting the people to the point of having decent meals.
Speaking with ABN TV on Thursday, Dr. Origa, who is the Registrar/CEO Institute For Humanitarian Studies And Social Development said the saying that man is God to fellow man should come to play now than any other time, saying generosity, magnanimity and selflessness are key elements of humanitarianism. “Humanitarian service has to do with service to mankind and service to mankind has to do with service to God” he stated.
Dr. Origa, a recipient of United Nations Peace Builders Scholarship Award while referencing to a book authored by a former US President, Bill Clinton emphasised that in humanitarian gesture, one must not necessary give everything.
He underlined that three Ts which he gave as time, talent, and treasure serve human needs, expressing regret that many feel reluctant in giving any of three in assisting fellow man.
He challenged those occupying sensitive positions in the society, including politicians not to wait till the period of electioneering campaign before they roll out customised palliatives just to curry the people’s political favour.
“For us who are in the core profession of promoting and advocating humanitarianism, this is actually who these true humanitarians are. We should actually be setting a benchmark which is, when people are actually in need, what did you do to provide succour for them?
“This era of COVID-19 which is impacting negatively on all of us, what have they done? We may be looking at it like something that has not affected us but someday, if it does not affect you directly, it will affect someone you know” he stated.
Dr. Origa appealed to those in position to assist to use this period as an opportunity to warm themselves into the heart of the people to pave way for their acceptance when they come to seek the people’s support during elections.
According to him, Institute For Humanitarian Studies And Social Development and its partners view a humanitarian as someone committed to alleviating the sufferings of people, saying it is not those masquerading as humanitarians without a track record.