THE Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), an arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), has hailed the passage of the Sexual Offences Bill in Parliament. The WPO also congratulated Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Ms. Priya Manickchand, as well as the Special Select Committee of Parliament, for working to fashion “this important piece of modern and progressive legislation.”
In a statement yesterday, the group said the legislation is gender neutral and repealed some aspects of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Cap 8:01.
It continued: “The WPO is proud of this legislation, especially since the organisation had written to the then Chief Justice, in 1988, making a number of recommendations which are contained therein.
“This legislation could not have come at a more opportune time, especially when many cases of sexual abuse and molestation of young children are being exposed.
“Recent incidents, which have become the source of conversations of almost everyone, reminds us that the events that have taken place are not new.
“The WPO recalls similar incidents that were brought to its attention when parents, instead of being outraged at the abuse of their children, opted for monetary rewards, without understanding fully, that no amount of money can erase the psychological and emotional scars of children.
“Unfortunately, some people who have money feel that they can continue to do as they please, without their victims having any recourse to the laws of Guyana.
“The passage of this legislation should give warning to those predators of young children, that the Government is serious about these incidents and enough is enough.
“Each one of us has a role to play and we need to ensure that all decent minded people must ensure that cases of similar nature are brought to the attention of the Child Care and Protection Agency.
“The attempt to make this incident a political football must be rejected by all since this is not the first time that matters such as these have been brought to the attention of the Police.”
The statement said, when allegations are made, due process must follow and there should be no exception to the rule.
“Any attempts to justify such behaviour will only encourage child molesters and predators to continue their despicable behaviour.
“This sexual offences legislation will be a deterrent to those who, in the past, have acted with impunity, in molesting children rather than protecting them.
“Once again, we give our unstinted support to the passing of this important and timely piece of legislation,” the statement concluded.