|
-Top Cop to write political parties The ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has written to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) over what it said were ‘assaults’ of its volunteers.Writing on behalf of the PPP,Rueben Randle LSU Jersey, Steve Ninvalle said that volunteers have been harassed, intimidated and threatened with violence.The party said that it was concerned that these incidents are being treated lightly by GECOM and other stakeholders even as opposition parties ‘bluntly’ refuse to sign the Code of Conduct for political parties contesting the November 28 polls.The PPP urged political parties to sign the code in order to convey to their supporters the need for civil and peaceful behaviour during the campaign season.Ninvalle had earlier reported at a press conference some of the incidents of ‘assault.’He claimed that last Wednesday, in Christiani Street,Tyrann Mathieu LSU Jersey, North Ruimveldt, 26 PPP/C volunteers were verbally abused and threatened by a group of about ten persons while sharing out pamphlets and party literature.The Group was led by a mature female and included several young men,Memphis Tigers Jerseys, Ninvalle said in a report.Although not identifying itself with any political party,Braylon Edwards Michigan Jersey, the group hurled racial slurs, he stated. The threats continued,Mario Manningham Michigan Jersey, forcing the volunteers to abandon their exercise and seek refuge in the minibus which had transported them to the area,Michigan Wolverines Jerseys, Ninvalle added.He said the bus was subsequently stoned by a group of youths resulting in minor damage.“Although none of the volunteers were physically harmed many are fearful of returning to that area,” Ninvalle stated.Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud had earlier written to the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, Dr. Steve Surujbally on similar matters, in which he had highlighted the destruction of the party’s billboards and other campaign assets.According to Persaud, the situation is deteriorating with certain elements moving from destroying billboards to outright harassment, intimidation and threats of violence against the party’s activists and volunteers.“Chairman, you would agree that this type of electioneering must not be tolerated or excused by anyone and we expect a firm response too by the Guyana Police Force.When contacted yesterday,Peyton Siva Louisville Jersey, Police Commissioner Henry Greene told this newspaper that he has received an expression of concern from Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee about the reported developments.However, he informed that he will be writing to all political parties advising them to desist from such practices.A Press release issued by the Force yesterday said that the Guyana Police Force has received a report from the PPP/C that activists and volunteers of that political party are being intimidated and harassed by bands of thugs who seem to be aligned to other political parties.“The Guyana Police Force wishes to make it clear that acts of intimidation or harassment of activists or volunteers of any political party or members of civil society will not be tolerated. These acts, once reported and there is sufficient evidence of a criminal offence,Malik Monk Kentucky Jersey, will be dealt with condignly. The Guyana Police Force wishes to call on all political parties to be tolerant and behave in a civil manner towards their fellow Guyanese,” the police statement said.Way back in July,Ed Reed Miami Jersey, the Commissioner had assured members of the media that the force was well prepared to handle any eventuality that could arise during the period leading up to and after General Election, which is now known to be held on November 28.“We have already identified at least three squads (from the Tactical Services Unit) to deal with public order. We’ve a fourth squad from headquarters to deal with public order issues… basics like foot patrols and so on, on election afternoon and we’re gearing up for the meetings ,” Greene disclosed.The Force had issued publications on training with regards to the control of public meetings which have already commenced in earnest.“All of those preparations we’ve made and we’re waiting now for the particular time when those rush of meetings will start. We’re ready,” Greene had said. |
|