(de Ware Tijd) PARAMARIBO – Against all rules political party Pertajah Luhur (PL) lighted fireworks in public last Sunday in the District of Nickerie. If authorities fail to take action against the political party and its leader Paul Somohardjo, it will be considered unequal justice, says Michel Jules, prevention inspector with the Fire Department (KBS).
During a Children’s Day event in the District of Nickerie on Saturday, Pertjajah Luhur lighted fireworks without permission. On top of that the display turned awry when some fireworks landed in the public wounding four people. ‘Just minor incidents,’ says politician Somohardjo. Fireworks pierced a woman’s skirt and a child was hit in the eye. Luckily his glasses prevented worse. Another woman was seriously burned in the face. The PL chairman has seriously violated the peace on Sunday and with his illegal display he has transgressed the law. Jules says immediate action is imperative. Somohardjo claims he had oral permission for the display from his Nickerie legislators, but the fire fighter denies it.
‘On whose authority? Permission is always put in writing.’
With much fanfare KBS announced the fireworks period from December 27 through January 2 and the severe penalties for violation. Minister of Justice Edward Belfort had expressed hope that the fireworks period will be free of accidents. District Commissioner (DC) for South-West Paramaribo, Marcelino Nerkust, took a harsh stance on possible violations. ‘The permits are to import and sell fireworks; if you violate the rules, you’ll hear from us,’ the DC had warned.
Nickerie’s DC, Wedperkash Joeloemsingh, does not want to issue a statement in this matter. He did confirm that the fireworks display was illegal. Joeloemsingh says that measures will be taken against violators and the illegally sold fireworks will be confiscated. Jules points out that there are rules for public fireworks displays. Requests have to be submitted to have at least two fire trucks at the site. The fireworks may not be lighted near houses, risky places and cars. The Fire Department must inspect the site before the event. In addition, two fire extinguishers or at least two pails of water or sand must be nearby. Jules says that for any such event the DC or the Fire Department must be notified.
