I AM terribly disappointed (this is an understatement), at the continuation of this madness of Kaieteur News columnist, Freddie Kissoon, of publishing highly damaging information – and in the process, damaging people’s character – without validating same.

I have written about this issue several times now but Kaieteur News and Kissoon are hell-bent on continuing this despicable practice.

Those who are very vocal in their daily attacks on the Government, close their eyes and ears to these unwarranted attacks by Kissoon and Kaieteur News. It is a commentary on the value system of those who describe themselves as freedom fighters and human rights activists, yet remain mum on these incessant and vicious attacks.

The latest victim is the late Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud. Kissoon publishes a highly scandalous article on this former PPP parliamentarian, and Persaud’s daughter, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, responded to the malicious allegations of Freddie Kissoon.

She provided strong evidence to refute all these spurious claims by Kissoon. Again, the issue of validation comes into focus. How does Kissoon comes up with his information? How credible are his sources? Does he properly investigate his sources? Do his bosses (Harris, Lall and others) ask Kissoon to validate his information before publishing?

So many questions remain unanswered. Kaieteur News is equally culpable as Kissoon in this daily character assassination. In their nonchalant attitude to Kissoon, they are aiding and abetting him in his senseless campaign.

Miles Fitzpatrick at Stabroek News let Kissoon know, in no uncertain manner (when Kissoon was there) that he was responsible for all articles he (Kissoon) publishes. When Kissoon was sued, it was not the responsibility of Stabroek News but Kissoon. This is why Kissoon hates Fitzpatrick, but the latter was correct — if a journalist cannot substantiate his information then he must accept the consequences, such as being sued.

Kaieteur News allow Kissoon a free reign like he is in the ‘wild west’. There are no rules, no boundaries, no limit to what Kissoon publishes. It is time Guyanese display the courage to speak up. Kissoon must also demonstrate that he has the testicular courage and fortitude to apologise for his huge indiscretions. He speaks of the many negatives in Guyana but he sits on top of the list.

Another issue that I want to write on is this decision by GRA to settle the tax evasion charges with Lall and his relatives. Why is there one rule for the rich and the powerful and another for the poor man. With all due respect to Khurshid Sattaur, Glenn Lall should face the courts like everyone else.

Lall used his paper to malign the character of Sattaur and his family for a prolonged period of time, yet he is negotiating a settlement. I thought Lall was innocent! We are only seeing one side of the story of Guyana’s dark side!

RAKESH SINGH