Dear Editor,
I have noted the reports of the results of post-mortem examination conducted on Melinda Niewenkirk. There is no scientific information available to me that could contradict those results. However, considering the current wanton lack of trust in the Guyana Police Force and the circumstantial evidence which is in the public domain, the nation would be well served if there is the release of the PME Report and the commencement of a Coroner’s Inquest as provided for in the Coroners Act. The Inquest should be conducted by the district magistrate as coroner.
The coroner is empowered to summon reputable residents of the Melinda’s neighbourhood to act as jurors during the inquest, and to subpoena witnesses and hear pertinent evidence. The findings should be made public. An Inquest would inform not only the circumstances immediately prior to, during and immediately after the death, but will also inform whether or not a crime was committed to be prosecuted upon. This can restore some semblance of credibility in the Guyana Police Force which is currently experiencing its worst credibility crisis.
Sincerely,
Ms. Geeta Chandan -Edmond
APNU +AFC Member of Parliament
Attorney -at-Law
