THE announcement of a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the early 2000s crime wave in Guyana marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. For years, allegations of extra-judicial killings and racially charged violence have haunted the political landscape, with claims that hundreds, even thousands, of young men—predominantly of African descent—were killed during this turbulent period. While these allegations have been a point of contention, the forthcoming CoI provides an opportunity for transparency, justice, and perhaps a measure of closure.

The General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, confirmed that President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali will soon announce the CoI, which aims to shed light on the extent of the violence and the role various political actors played during those dark times. Dr. Jagdeo’s comments, made during a press conference, were in direct response to criticisms from the opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), who have repeatedly accused the PPP/C government of orchestrating extra-judicial killings. These accusations, often presented in racial terms, continue to divide the nation.

However, this momentous step toward uncovering the truth is not without controversy. Jagdeo has denounced the opposition’s claims as hypocritical and inflammatory, arguing that their rhetoric is designed to stir racial tensions rather than pursue justice.
He reminded the public of the opposition’s support for criminals during the infamous 2002 Camp Street jailbreak, a period that saw a wave of armed robberies, murders, and violent confrontations with the police. Jagdeo’s accusations—that opposition members at the time referred to the criminals as “freedom fighters”—are serious and demand scrutiny, as they speak to the complex and painful layers of Guyana’s political and racial struggles.

Indeed, the role of the opposition during this period is a critical aspect of the narrative that must be explored. The upcoming CoI presents an opportunity to address not only the claims of extra-judicial killings, but also the broader socio-political forces at play.
It is worth noting that the former President, David Granger, had promised a similar inquiry during his administration, yet failed to deliver. Dr Jagdeo has suggested that Granger’s reluctance stemmed from concerns that such an inquiry would expose the PNCR’s complicity in supporting criminal elements during the crime wave. The public deserves to know the truth, and this CoI may finally provide it.

The historical context provided by investigative reports, such as the 2019 findings from Stabroek News, adds a layer of complexity to the opposition’s claims. While some 400 young Afro-Guyanese men were alleged to have been victims of extra-judicial killings, the report clarified that 420 people were killed between February 2002 and September 2006, with many deaths attributed to confrontations with law enforcement and the drug trade. This data dismantles the narrative of indiscriminate killings, but does not absolve anyone from potential wrongdoing. Only a thorough, transparent investigation will reveal the full scope of the truth.

In a broader sense, the CoI is more than a historical reckoning—it is a test of Guyana’s commitment to justice and racial harmony. The racial undertones of the opposition’s allegations have reopened old wounds, and while it is essential to investigate any abuse of power by the state, it is equally crucial that the inquiry does not become a political tool for further division.

The PPP/C government’s decision to move forward with the CoI aligns with recommendations from the United Nations Human Rights Committee (UNHRC), which urged an investigation into the alleged killings. This international endorsement reinforces the legitimacy of the inquiry, offering a measure of assurance that the process will be conducted fairly.

Yet, the CoI is just one part of the government’s broader commitment to improving the lives of all Guyanese. The administration’s National Pathway Workers Programme, launched under the leadership of Dr Jagdeo, has provided part-time jobs for thousands of unemployed citizens, giving them a sense of purpose and financial stability. The opposition’s sudden reversal—from criticising the programme to promising higher wages for its workers—highlights their lack of creativity in addressing the nation’s socio-economic challenges.

As the CoI moves forward, it is essential that the focus remains on truth, reconciliation, and justice. For Guyana to heal, the nation must confront its past with honesty and a commitment to unity. The road ahead will not be easy, but the potential for healing and progress is immense. Guyanese deserve nothing less than a thorough investigation that seeks to resolve the pain of the past and build a foundation for a more equitable future.