THE government, in a statement last evening, said it regretted the loss of life in protests in Linden; and while it affirmed the right to peaceful protest, it will not tolerate mayhem and disorder. Following is the full text of the statement:
The Government of Guyana sincerely regrets the loss of life and injuries as events took an unfortunate turn for the worse last evening in Linden. The Government extends condolences and sympathies to the families of those who suffered injuries and loss of life.
A full investigation of the events would be held as soon as sufficient calm is restored.
The APNU and the AFC cannot avoid blame for these unfortunate developments. They organised and allowed their Members of Parliament (MPs), activists and extremists to lead protest against a thoughtful and sensitive programme for the gradual reform of the provision of electricity to the Linden community to deteriorate to such a point of violence and destruction.
The government reiterates that the gradual increase in tariffs for Linden did not warrant such violent behaviour, especially when the rest of Guyana is paying the full rates.
The government reaffirms the right of people to peaceful protest. However, disorder and mayhem which threaten life and property cannot be tolerated.
These activists joined a number of known extremists and agitators who seem to dedicate their lives to denigrating whatever this Government does and to erode the progress made in Guyana.
Allowing protest to lead to such loss and damage of property and destruction through fires must be avoided and condemned.
The government will do all that is possible to protect the people and property in the Linden community from such irresponsible and reckless leadership.