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The AFC expresses its outrage at the brutal attack perpetuated against Gaumatie Singh, Attorney-at-Law, and former member of the Party, on Wednesday, May 28, 2008. The party wishes Ms. Singh a speedy recovery, and demands that the authorities spare no effort in capturing and prosecuting the villain who carried out this dastardly act.
The AFC has long warned that the disintegrating crime and security fabric of the nation would lead to the types of attacks that we are witnessing today where criminals operate with impunity as they carry out their evil agenda. Today police officers are being shot at, persons abducted and beheaded, and little babies and elderly women are being raped and killed! The Government has is failing miserably to protect the people of Guyana. Government has a duty to ensure that the prevailing disregard for the Rule of Law will be reversed and that the anarchy and pervasive lawlessness will be arrested. Enough is not being done despite boasts about being on top of crime. People must protest as our sisters and brothers are doing in neighbouring countries.
Ms. Singh’s grievous assault comes at a time when we are witnessing increasing physical and verbal attacks against the Judiciary, and its officers, including, Attorneys-at-Law. Only recently, the Chief Magistrate (ag.) was attacked by a prisoner, and the Chief Justice was accused of challenging the Executive by a Minister of the Government.
Unfortunately, the respect once shown to Attorneys-at-Law as Officers of the Court, and to members of the Judiciary, is now part of a bygone era. The AFC demands that the Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs enters into an immediate dialogue with the Bar Association and the Judiciary with a view to finding workable recommendations to safeguard the security of members of the Judiciary and legal practitioners.
Lastly, The AFC notes the unfortunate reference in the Kaieteur News report of Thursday, May 29, 2007 to the effect that Ms. Singh maintained a “court case” against the Party. This is furthest from the truth and is another glaring example of reckless and irresponsible journalism that is becoming the norm in Guyana. We expect that an apology will be issued to both Ms. Singh and to the AFC.
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