Although it is still part of our laws, Guyana has moved away from the death penalty. The last execution was in 1997. It is a controversial issue. Some believe that it is barbaric. But would one empathize with one who has murdered and was not swayed by the fear in their victim’s eyes? Is anyone who has chosen to take innocent life for reasons such as greed, sacrifice or because they chose to defy non-violent conflict resolutions worthy of living?
Some believe that restoring the death penalty in Guyana would lead to a reduction in violent crimes, like rape and murder. But then, what about those who have wrongfully been convicted? History tells us that there are cases where people were executed and then later it was proven that they were innocent. I have also thought about the ones who would have to perform the executions.