THE LAWS of Guyana are made for all. By this it means every man, woman and child, regardless of his or her socio-economic and political status in life, are obligated to obey the law. When there is acceptance by all that the rule of law places every citizen as subjected to the law, such not only augur well for national unity but ensure peaceful co-existence and harmony among the citizenry. This is a place we must strive to be, and never let up until it is realised for, and upheld by every man, woman and child.
The Guyana Police Force, the government’s enforcement arm, has issued new traffic regulations, one of which is addressing parking in a city crawling with vehicles and awaits urban planning that would factor in building new roads. In order to address the congestion, in the meantime, some streets have been made one-way, others have restricted parallel parking.
One such street where parallel parking has been implemented is Robb Street. Robb Street is an artery teaming with activities. In addition to it housing, the Head Office of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) “Freedom House” it is also a main thoroughfare for vendors and customers in the Bourda Market area. At times Robb Street is not only impassable for motorists, but also difficult to find parking space to do business within the area. The resultant effect has seen a chaotic environment, horns blaring excessively, persons shouting at one another, pedestrians forced to jump out the way from motorists, and inconsiderate parking. In short, using Robb Street requires grit and determination or a don’t-care-a-darn attitude.
Thus, when the Traffic Department sought to bring some semblance of order to the chaos, those who prefer an environment of order welcomed the move. But this move though welcomed by some is equally applicable to all. As such it is disturbing to hear PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee’s flippant response when asked by the media why motorists are parking at Freedom House in violation of the traffic law. The PPP has held Executive office for eons (1953-1964 and 1992-2015). The party has been on the political landscape for 66 years and is presently in the Opposition. It is no stranger to societal evolution, governance, and the importance of upholding the rule of law, given what it means for society’s growth and development. Equally as Mr. Rohee touts, “this huge political party with 32 seats in Parliament” ought to know such office carries corresponding responsibility in ensuring respect for the laws and law enforcement.
One of the pet issues raise regularly at the PPP’s weekly press conference, or at any opportunity, is that of crime. This is ok, given the desire of every citizen to live in a society where crime is reduced and the culpable held to account. Comments of concern, coming from the party’s leadership that crime is escalating; that the APNU+AFC government is not doing sufficient to reduce crime and safeguard citizens, is equally helped when the party remains on the right side of the law.
The leadership ought not to entertain any thought that the law does not matter for them but for others, or that they have the prerogative to flout the law. Thinking or treating with the law through this prism poses endless problems to this nation ever being able to achieve the status where the law is for all. No one has the prerogative to decide which law he or she will respect or flout. And thankfully this is so, lest the mighty think it has the freeway to trample the poor and powerless. The Police have a responsibility to enforce the law and must do so without fear, favour, ill-will or appreciation. The PPP leadership has a responsibility to correct this traffic violation, forthwith. Like everyone the party too has to obey the law. Given its years and role in this nation’s body politics it shoulders greater responsibility to ensure this through example.