Expressions of outrage too late

THE EDITOR: The President, former President, Principal of UWI, Chamber of Industry and Commerce President, Commissioner of Police, Dean of the University, former Prime Minister and other prominent figures have expressed outrage at the senseless murder of a police officer in his line of duty. Justifiably so and I join with them to express my open condemnation again at those heartless, wicked and nasty murderers. Why has it taken those persons so long to say something! Why can’t they do something! Does it have to affect them directly to realise that the pain and sufferings of those who have had their loved ones murdered are genuine?

Does it have to take a rocket scientist to tell them that the criminals feel that they are untouchable ever since they had their closed door meeting in a top hotel with the Prime Minister of their choice! Do they read the newspapers or listen or watch the news to know that we are in a war zone? This place under any PNM government has always seen people in high positions who are reactive and not proactive and for that we are paying the ultimate price. Why have all their crime plans failed so far? Why have they not seen it wise to utilise the best resources available in the world to get rid of this menace to society? Are they afraid to do so because they would lose some votes?

I am sorry to say that the end of the senseless killings has no end in sight under the present regime, as they do not possess the will to shake off the criminals known to them. It is unfortunate that we have no alternative in a democratic society, until the next election. I am sorry to say that based on the present statistics no fewer than 100 lives will be lost violently before that time — by guns, knives, dogs and vehicles. How pathetic that the Minister of National Security can say now that the criminals have now crossed the line. Is he saying that it was alright or acceptable before the murder of Robinson’s guard?

LYSTRA LYTHE
Sangre Grande