Dear Editor,
Over the last years, there has been much said about police brutality towards members of our society, moreso the poorer class. The first police force when established in London by Sir Robert Peel was designed to protect the property of the rich from attacks by the criminal, mostly poor element. The police attacks noted are just reminders of the real role of the force. It is not by accident they are called a ‘Force.’
There is a huge gap in wealth between the rich and the poor. As a consequence, the poor have increased their criminal activities to reduce this gap. These acts of murder and robbery should not be condoned. What else can the poor do to redress this imbalance in wealth distribution?
Certain states in America have found the legalization of cannabis for medical and recreational use has been very economically profitable, to say nothing of the social benefits. The only purpose the criminalization of cannabis in Guyana serves is to create criminals. I have personally witnessed young people jailed for the cultivation of small amounts of cannabis turn to full-fledged crime after release from prison. Having a criminal record meant they could not obtain regular jobs. The legalization of marijuana could create a plethora of jobs as the plant is very versatile in its uses.
Many plants in Guyana have brought untold wealth to their cultivators and harvesters, eg rice, cane, coconuts, timber. The poor people of Guyana are asking for cannabis to be added to the list so they can forsake a life of crime and reap the benefits of our culture.
Yours faithfully,
Ian Forde
