Dear Editor
I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the relatives and friends of Mr. Dweive Ramdass who lost his life as a result of an act allegedly committed by ranks of the Guyana Defence Force.
I also wish to request of them to refrain from the belief that all members of the Guyana Defence Force are like those who allegedly took the life of their loved one.
The floodgates of previous allegations against the force have now been reopened. Buxton, Lindo Creek, unsolved disappearances and other perceived misdeeds will now take centre stage. The alleged action of those three other ranks, have tarnished the image of the Guyana Defence Force beyond repair.
I have always had my suspicions about the commitment to Guyana and the Guyana Defence Force by some officers and ranks, based on the loss of the AK47s, and the attempt by some soldiers to sell their weapons to members of the public. The fact that the ranks allegedly involved in the commission of the crime, were alleged to have passed on some of their ill-gotten gains to their relatives, says a lot about their background. A new look may be required in respect of the recruitment of other ranks and officer cadets. The mere presentation of a police clearance and two testimonials can no longer suffice.
Having successfully completed the relevant academic requirements for entry into the Guyana Defence Force, a thorough background check must be done to ensure each prospective entrant to the force is suitable material. It will be costly, but the image and professionalism of the force demand it.
National policy based on Guyanese history and the impact of the military (Burgher Militia to the Guyana Defence Force) on our society must be taught to new entrants – in fact all members of the force should be taught or informed.
Further, every allegation of impropriety against members of the force, must be investigated. The findings of the investigation and the punishment (if necessary) should be public. The idea or habit of sweeping military embarrassments under the carpet must cease. An oath of allegiance must be taken in public in an appropriate setting or location by successful recipients and newly commissioned officers.
I wish to propose that the oath for recruits should be done at Independence Park, formerly the Parade Ground, whilst the newly commissioned officers should do theirs on the forecourt of Parliament Building, in the presence of all parliamentarians.
Yours faithfully,
C.S. Vaughn MSM
Major (Rtd)
