Dear Editor,
With a heart heavier than a politician’s promise, I pen this letter as the good citizens of Guyana find themselves in the throes of rumours and accusations involving high crimes and misdemeanors, including domestic violence, malfeasance, graft and corruption. This recent upsurge in violent and non-violent criminal activities, especially domestic violence, has left us all feeling like extras in a poorly written thriller, scrambling for clarity and justice in a landscape more chaotic than a disorganized protest.
In such turbulent times, the highbrow concepts of “prima facie” and “habeas corpus” (which some folks amusingly confuse with “Janessa corpus”) come galloping to the rescue like legal superheroes. “Prima facie,” a Latin term that pretends to mean “at first glance,” refers to the evidence that, unless someone clever objects, is enough to convict anyone with a pulse. In the context of the recent crime spree, it’s crucial for our law enforcement wizards to conjure up some solid prima facie evidence to ensure that perpetrators get their just desserts faster than a politician retracting a campaign promise.
Equally vital is the principle of “habeas corpus,” that ancient and noble safeguard against unlawful detention, ensuring no one gets locked up without a proper show in court. This legal relic requires that anyone arrested be paraded before a judge, ensuring that detentions aren’t just whims of an overzealous officer. In our current crime-infested carnival, this right must be upheld with the tenacity of a bureaucrat at quitting time, ensuring that justice is both served and Instagram-ready.
The crime surge doesn’t just make us jittery; it unravels the very fabric of our society, which, let’s be honest, wasn’t exactly bulletproof to begin with. It’s a clarion call to action for everyone from the beat cop to the bench judge to uphold the principles of justice with the enthusiasm of a public official on election day. Only by doing this can we restore public confidence and ensure Guyana remains a place where the rule of law isn’t just a suggestion but a mandate.
In closing, let us remember that the strength of our legal system lies in sticking to these fundamental principles, no matter how dusty they might seem. As we navigate through these chaotic times, it’s our collective duty to uphold justice, protect the innocent, and make sure the guilty get what’s coming to them.
Sincerely,
Keith Bernard
