IMBALANCE stalks the land. Too many times, Guyanese complain, and maybe rightfully so. I also think that ‘words’ of praise and recognition must be uttered too, even if the incidents, engendering such responses, are few.
I make this point because it is always wrong to generalise and make every police officer a ‘bad John.’ There are many good ‘lawmen’ in Guyana, and they must be singled out for professionalism and general good conduct. Here is such an example.
I was driving along the highway, and please do not ask me where, etc., and was ‘pulled over’ by a very good officer. His badge read ‘Williams.’ He courteously and immediately accosted me and even before he told me of my minor infraction, I ‘confessed’ my folly.
I was doing just that few extra Km/h over the speed limit. I did so in a most matter-of-fact manner too, as I am really not one for fast driving. The point is that I was wrong, and officer Williams could see my virtual innocence.
So with a firm warning and a friendly ‘well wishing for the day,’ he sent me off. Now this little incident says a whole lot for such a man. He is an example in many things and ways.
First, it shows that all is not ‘terrible’ in Guyana, as so many are wont to believe and say. The Guyana Police Force indeed has many shortcomings, and many times the erring officers must be upbraided.
In fact, currently, some are before the courts. However, to ‘bad talk’ all of them is always wrong. This is like ‘lumping’ the whole lot, when the folly is quite at the individual level.
This very ‘professional’ officer must be commended for his good approach and sense of dignity. He is a real big plus to the Force. His conduct is the standard for the Force; it also shows evidence of good breeding and culture.
Please, let this be an inspiration.