Dear Editor,
I wish to yet again bring your attention and that of the readers to the perplexing issue of abuse being vented towards our women in society. Hence, this concern is becoming alarming due to the recent attack by the businessman towards his ex-wife. Not only is this act notorious but barbaric. Our nation has a bloodstained history of violence against women which is recorded not only statistically but can be witnessed almost every day. Countless women have been injured, harmed and brutally killed by vicious men. When will men realize that these cruel and ruthless acts do make them inhuman? These heartless traits are unacceptable.
Whatever is the circumstance for men’s retaliation towards their spouse or ex-partners, nothing justifies their merciless acts. How does wielding a cutlass and chopping another person vindicate you from the hurt or pain caused by another, whether it be gas lighting, or something that you do not agree with? Further, are our women safe? Can women leave a relationship without fear of being attacked, threatened or losing their lives? In my opinion, most men struggle with rage, but in no way should it be used to assault someone in an abusive manner or batter them to the point that it results in bodily harm or death. How do we let men with such attributes live freely in our communities? What drive men to such a place? Whatever is the reason, again, it is not suffice?
Can men and women talk things through? Can there be a reasonable agreement and conclusion? Too many women are living with scars left by their husbands or intimate partners. Is this what our Guyanese men are known for? Moreover, men of this nature often result in many Guyanese men being stereotyped and labeled as killers or being looked down upon in relationships. How do we change the narrative? Thus, men must first realize that they do not own a woman. She is not an object or property that can be bought and sold, and treated as they see pleasing. Women are not second class citizens, but an integral part of our lives. Therefore, men must change these beliefs that are embedded in their minds or shaped by the environments in which they were brought up.
The world has changed and more appropriate open discussions and opportunities are available today in resolving conflicts. Hence, men must learn to let go and move on. Additionally, when perpetrators of abuse are apprehended, they should be given institutionalized help, counselling and mentorship before they are released into society. Their progress and behaviours should be monitored to ensure that they are not a threat to the wider community. Unless we raise the standards relative to these cases, we will always have men who think that they can get away with these bestial and cold-blooded deeds.
Finally, it is imperative that we do not condone any form of abuse regardless of what may have triggered that reaction. We must join our voices together to ensure that both genders are treated fairly in our society, and that there is no place for any unjust treatment.
Sincerely,
Imran Bacchus
