PAUL Slowe Assistant Commissioner of Police and a 37-year veteran of the Guyana Police Force has retired in the wake of some profound statements made as part of a recent farewell address. Slowe is best remembered for his controversial refusal of a direct order by former Home Affairs minister Ronald Gajraj, pertaining to a seized firearm.
Slowe must be congratulated for such a lengthy tenure, for I am certain that he would have contributed to the maintenance of law and order, as was reported in the aftermath of the 1992 elections, when he suggested to his superiors that firm steps be taken against the threat of post-election violence. He is also a champion marksman.
In his farewell speech, he alleged out of control corruption, condemned the unprofessional conduct of some policemen, and lamented the diminution of the Force’s image as a result of the “phantom” phenomenon.
As was expected, the private press had a field day. They served up Slowe’s exclusive to their readership, like a chef serving up a juicy piece of steak to his customers. Fine! That is their right in a democratic society. But the former senior cop has made some self-ascribing statements about being above corrupt practices, for example. Without seeking to subtract from this policeman’s claim of integrity, did that section of the press do any background investigation into his claims? This question is asked because some sections of the local media have a very convenient manner in presenting some accounts readily and unverified that they perceive will tarnish the government. This seems to have been the line in this particular case. The Stabroek News, always presenting itself as a paragon of virtue, was in the forefront of publishing this interesting account.
Let this particular daily be reminded that its late publisher always insisted on getting all sides of a story before going to press. Was this done in this extant case?
NORMAN JONES