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Apr 15, 2016 Editorial, Features / Columnists
Guyanese in recent times have been hounded by propaganda and untruths from the opposition about the socio-economic calamities that confront them. And while it is true that the economy is struggling and crime has risen, the public ought to know that previous administrations must take full responsibility for these failures.
However, if the incumbent administration does take urgent measures to remedy the situation, it would mean that an increasing number of people would continue to struggle to put food on the table and meet their routine day-to-day expenses. Many more would have no idea how they will survive other than turning to crime.
The report that robberies, murders and rapes have been committed at significant rates during the first three months of the year is very troubling. Shockingly, but for unknown reasons, a 12-year-old and her 18 year old sister, along with two of their friends, were charged with the murder of their father.
Something is definitely wrong in Guyana. Crime continues to have a demoralizing effect on the people, especially the elderly, who are living in constant fear of gun-toting individuals. It is bad for society, but worse for them. Cold-blooded murder and armed robberies are committed also every day across the country by heartless, brutal assailants who obviously have no regard for life. These criminals who commit these violent and inhumane acts must be hunted down and face the full force of the law.
The country cannot afford to allow criminals and gangs to thrive as was done at the turn of the century when political opportunism was given more weight than the national good. It should not be the place where criminals believe that they can commit acts of savagery with impunity. The police force and every law-abiding citizen must work together to ensure that the country is not plunged into an abyss of wanton crime.
It is the responsibility of citizens to give the police information on illegal activities that arouse suspicion. There is nothing wrong with being an informer. It is an act of courage, because it indicates that citizens are willing to take a stand against the dreadful crimes that beset the country. It is that sense of sacrifice, for the good of all that would make the difference in the fight against crime.
But let’s make no mistake about it, the negative effects of violent crime on the economy at the individual, community and national levels could be devastating. The country’s economic development will not materialize if criminal activities, especially murder and violent incidents, continue unabated. Potential investors will not invest in a country where their lives and those of their families, employees, and customers/clients would be in danger.
As the situation now stands, those on the front line of the war against criminals are chronically understaffed to fight the heartless evils. Obviously more personnel and material resources are needed, as well as stronger anti-crime legislation and rigorous execution of the laws. However, the most sustainable way to fight crime is to organize communities so as to make it easier for individuals and groups to support the police.
The available evidence is clear: Crime is very low in most well-organized communities with strong citizens’ associations, neighbourhood watch groups and vibrant youth groups. Criminals routinely prey on communities that are disorganized.
Today, far too many communities are leaderless, disorganized and even dysfunctional. Many are crying out for help from elected officials, civic groups, business and religious leaders to form a partnership with them to fight crime. The government and the opposition must join hands to help organize the communities. It must be a vigorous, upbeat and sustained campaign. But the elected leaders must lead the way.
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