The deaths in Linden during a protest are most unfortunate and sad and some would argue that the police used excessive force while others would justify the action of the police. However, the reality is that it is far too early to determine whether the police used excessive force or not, simply because such issues are extremely complex as a result of the charged atmosphere and confusion. Only a full and thorough investigation into the incident will be able to determine what really took place on that day.
In this regard, the Office of the President has made it clear that it is determined to uncover the details of the Linden protest. This is most welcome and most Guyanese should be supportive of such a move.
It is also encouraging to see that President Donald Ramotar and the opposition and stakeholders met to discuss the issue and to chart the way forward. One would hope such meetings will become the norm.
However, serious consideration should be given to appointing investigator (s) from outside of Guyana to prevent any accusation of bias and a lack independence and objectivity, because if there is no confidence and trust in the investigator (s), then there will not be a proper conclusion to the matter, which in turn could lead to other complications which we cannot afford.
What is also unfortunate is that the issue of the electricity tariff which is essentially an economic and financial issue is being transformed into a political one by the opposition, because already accusations are being levelled against the government that it ordered the shooting.
But the Ministry of Home Affairs has made it categorically clear that the operation at Linden was strictly a police one with no direct or indirect involvement of the ministry.
What the current issue does not need is for the opposition to use it as a political football and raise tensions which are already high in Linden. A situation of this nature needs a demonstration of statesmanship and a sober and responsible approach free of emotions and political considerations.
One aspect of the issue which apparently has escaped everyone’s attention at the moment, but is also very important, is the question of who will take care of the victims’ families or dependants, particularly if young children are involved.
In addition, they would need immediate counselling and emotional support as they would  obviously be in a state of trauma. On this note, one would expect that the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security and non-governmental organisations as well will move swiftly to see that help could be provided.
So at this moment what is of relevance is the fixing of the damage done and preventing any further disorder and mayhem, rather than who is right or wrong.