Misleading talk of violence

THE EDITOR: Once again we see community and religious leaders warning about violence in the society. In Saturday’s article of the Trinidad Guardian under the caption “Sat warns of violence” there is the statement in a letter to the President where Mr Maharaj allegedly said “this country is teething (sic) on the brink of racial violence.

The question must be asked: Is this really so or is this an incitement to violence. And if this is so, whom is this violence to be directed toward? Also who are the ones that Mr Maharaj worries about not being able to stop from committing these acts of violence? Are we to believe that ordinary citizens of Trinidad and Tobago who “lime” together and work together will suddenly start fighting each other because of racial or political differences? I do not think so. It is my belief that the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago are law-abiding people who will not be led to any type of violence to satisfy the desires of the misguided, divisive leaders of our society.

With regards to alleged moves to remove Satnarine Sharma, the following points must be noted: The judiciary is independent of political influence, essentially to ensure that all citizens regardless of race, colour or political affiliation are treated equally before the law. The judiciary is not a law unto itself; it is not a group of untouchables that is above the law or the intent of the law. As such the Constitution allows for removal of person or persons from judicial office. The process is very complex leading all the way through to the Privy Council. Our elected Government has a responsibility to ensure that no person or persons abuse their official duties to the detriment of the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

Hence the provision in our Constitution for the removal of judicial officers. If the Government of Trinidad and Tobago believes that a case exists for the removal of the Chief Justice, then one must allow it to proceed under the Constitution with its intent. The Constitution and our judicial system exist to protect all the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago including the Chief Justice. If we as a nation ever seek to look at all our issues through racial or political eyes we will never progress. I wish to make it very clear that I do not know what is the State’s case against Mr Sharma or if there is such a case, but whatever exists must not be relegated to the level of racial or political rivalry.

I have every confidence in the Constitution of our country and those elected to preserve its intent. We observe with great concern the developments in this issue. Once again I am calling on all our leaders to act responsibly and refrain from attempting to incite violence and racial disharmony among our citizens.

STEVE ALVAREZ
Port-of-Spain