Dear Editor,
An admission of preposterous dimensions was contained in the ill-prepared dossier of human rights abuses, which was issued in the name of the combined opposition parties, the PNCR, AFC, GAP and WPA.
Relying on spurious and flimsy perceptions, they have totally concluded that a “prima facie” basis has been established to warrant further investigation of grave human rights abuses and warned “….that the failure to launch such a probe could fuel a cycle of hatred that could stoke the return of violence.” Whew! Quite intimidating and preposterous! The government must, therefore, cower and meekly acquiesce or all hell will break out. Inherent is the threat of violence and this is nothing new in the statements usually issued, especially by the PNCR. Well, all I have to say to the opposition is that they should recognize that no self-respecting government will flinch from threats coming from any source, but even less originating from a discredited combination of political figures.
The response from the Office of the President did not take long. The statement quite correctly dismissed the joint effort and saw it as a continuing campaign by the PNCR to consistently oppose the government’s efforts at defence of public order and democratic gains. It further accused the party of offering support to criminal gangs and joining in the glorification of gang members and leaders in life and death. Shamelessly, the parliamentary opposition parties have thrown in their support to the PNCR in a desperate attempt to undermine the authority of the government by agreeing to be co-opted in the drafting of the dossier.
Yours faithfully,
David DeGroot
