Dear Editor,
IS there anything more tyrannical than a majority which oppresses a vulnerable minority? MP Juan Edghil wrote extensively about what he believes to be authoritarianism in the current administration in a recent Stabroek News article. But his comparisons between the current administration and the previous one are laughable at best.

That he can say that the PPP/C “encouraged” democracy throughout their tenure is shocking, given the vast number of alleged extra-judicial killings that took place during their time in office. How can democracy thrive when voters fear for their lives and the town is in chaos? The very minimum required for democratic governance is citizens’ safety.

His argument even extends to the PNC’s time in office, which is several decades ago at this point. But just the other day former Prime Minister Sam Hinds was far from apologetic about that famous crime spree, blaming politically aligned groups. It is as if he needs to be reminded that it is the administration of the day’s job to deal with all criminals, no matter to whom they are loyal.

Not protecting the supporters of opposition parties is really just a majority in power oppressing a minority, it’s that simple. The quality of our democracy is far better now because with the depths we fell to, not much is required to surpass the low bar they set. The honourable MP needs to account for the basic errors the PPP/C made in protecting citizens before his arguments can be at all convincing.

Regards
Troy Douglas