“Freedom of speech is enshrined in the modern, democratic society and it is alive and well in Guyana today.” That was the opening line of an editorial in the Guyana Chronicle a few days ago.
At the same time, I picked up the letter on my desk, sent to me on behalf of the Regional Democratic Council of Region Six, threatening to take legal action against me for the letter which I penned about the Christmas parties in Region Six. This letter was published in both independent dailies.
The lawyer’s letter (the second in my letter-writing history) accuses the letter of being “highly defamatory” and alleges it “portrays a very damaging impression of the entire Regional Democratic Council.” I have re-read my letter about the parties umpteen times, and my position is still clear. My letter did not contain any language which merits legal action from any person or lawyer, hence I will most certainly not apologize in these columns. My letter contained phrases such as “numerous allegations…” and asked questions such as, “Are funds from Region Six being used?” In fact, persons whom I have consulted saw no defamatory remarks in the letter. I will not be intimidated by these people! My letter dealt broadly with the Christmas parties being politicized.
This is the second lawyer’s letter I have received from two separate entities of the regional administration. It therefore begs the question as to whether certain elements in the administration feel threatened by me and my writing, and are using lawyers’ letters to show their ‘big and bad’ attitude. I will not fall for it. I have written far stronger things in these columns about other entities. I have lashed out at GPL and even GWI in these very columns. I admire their ability to take criticisms bravely and maturely. But yes, others appear to be standing, watching, waiting, combing people’s letters for any excuse, any loophole through which they can advance their agendas, by threatening citizens who have their say in the letters’ column. For them, criticisms are out, not to be tolerated. And they do not take lightly those who do not see things as they do. I am afraid this is what the PPP is becoming day by day.
So, how much money is allocated each year for legal fees and lawyers’ letters? I hope the 2010 Budget can address this. Or will I be sued as well for asking?
Yours faithfully,
Leon Jameson Suseran
