Dear Editor,
The PPP/C Government despite the concerns expressed by the combined opposition, on Friday night proceeded to use its simple majority to pass Bill No. 19 of 2008, the Interception of Communications Bill 2008.
This bill stinks to the high heavens. It reaffirms, if there was any doubt, that the PPP/C government is hell bent on making this country a police state. The Honourable Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Hinds, told the National Assembly that the government deliberately did not consult with persons who have inclinations toward the commission of crime!
Given the fact that he did not consult the PNCR and other opposition parties the Guyanese people must conclude that he considers these parties to be criminal entities. Prime Minister Hinds must explain what he means as his statement could be misinterpreted and lead to further tensions in our society.
The Prime Minister has chosen to once again insult the intelligence of the Guyanese people. For this reason and given the grave implications of this Bill, the citizens of this country should consider turning off their cell phones for two days per week for every week until the repressive PPP/C regime reverses its decision to bring this act into being.
True, the service providers will suffer some loss. But it is a sacrifice that I’m certain that they would happily make. After all they will not lose as much from this type of action by citizens as they will if the act is brought into force. Fellow Guyanese, we must stand up against this dictatorship now! If we don’t do it now, there will never be another chance to effectively represent ourselves and ensure that our rights are safeguarded.
Yours faithfully,
Mervyn Williams, M.P.
Region Three
Essequibo Islands/West Demerara
