WHAT has been a hot topic lately is the case of Guyanese footballer Vibert “Durdy” Butts’s three-year sentence due to possession of a measly 46 grams of marijuana. Though this happened a few weeks ago, social media is still HIGH on the issue, stating that it is time to change the draconian laws of the State.Nigel Hughes provided lengthy commentary on the issue, and though all his legal jargon was quite exhausting to read, his plight rang through to most, who uttered their agreement with his statements and gratitude for the law lesson.

And of course the Opposition wouldn’t be the Opposition if it weren’t being disgruntled about something! Former presidents Jagdeo and Ramotar are suing the government to reverse a change in the law that resulted in capping of their benefits. This topic, as you can imagine, effected in an outrageous discussion, which made me wonder if Facebook ever considered amending their censorship policy. From accusations of greed to some troubling statements that incited violence, these are the sentiments that were all too common following posts shared regarding this topic:

The men are simply worried about how they’ll pay for their fancy cars and houses during retirement. Wouldn’t that bother you too?

While the GGMC is under fire, GRA’s embattled staffer Troy Vanooten has reportedly broken his silence regarding the bribery allegations which led to his suspension. Basically, it’s a type of ‘mouth open, story jump out’ situation, as the disgruntled Vanooten claims he is being falsely accused due to his penchant for fighting against corrupt activities within the GRA.

Though Vanooten’s clap back has garnered many shares on social media, not much is being said as regards his response. GRA? What sayest thou?

Suspensions seem to be popular lately, and people are both glad for the revelations and curious as to what’s up with all the dishonesty. Permanent Secretary of the Legal Affairs Ministry, Indira Anandjit, was sent on leave as an audit is conducted into the disappearance of almost $4 million in equipment and law books. This caused many a raised eyebrow, but also caused other questions of accountability to arise, as names are yet to be called regarding hundreds of millions’ worth in missing funds discovered during a recent audit of the Sports and Arts Development Funds. Hmm…

Meanwhile, an unnamed police corporal came under public scrutiny when a photo was shared of him committing several traffic infractions. Here’s a mental picture: double-parked, no stopping sign, adding to the already insufferable congestion, bearing an alarming percentage of tint on his vehicle. This post, originally shared by a peeved Leroy Smith, resulted in several shares and outraged commentary, which mostly targeted the tendency for persons of such “occupations” to act as though they’re above the law. But fear not, people, something tells me that this callousness will be pulled in by the reins sooner than later. The power of social media is one to be reckoned with. Just weeks ago, a local minister personally made a public apology to a citizen after the latter posted a photograph of a similar traffic infraction caused by the minister’s driver, which resulted in congestion near the Camp Street/South Road junction.

The days of being silent are over, and everyone will be held accountable once we continue to call them out with the new-found power of the share button. Basically, if the law doesn’t catch up with them, the embarrassment caused by social media exposure will.