The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) continues to be most concerned as we follow closely the ongoing protests that emerged following the discovery of mutilated bodies of Joel and Isaiah Henry. The Federation shares the national outrage and demands that those responsible for the despotic act be made to answer for their heinous crime. We stand in solidarity with family, friends and communities of the two (2) young men who are obviously hurt and upset.
The Federation recognises too that the protests which emerged following the gruesome discovery of the Joel and Isaiah have taken an unsavory turn. Though we uphold the right of all Guyanese to protest, such actions must be peaceful and in conformity with the law. Dismayingly, media reports and social media posts have indicated that the protests have, at times, turned violent. Moreover, several innocent Guyanese have been attacked as we have seen the blocking of roadways, the destruction of vehicles, burnings of residence and debris, among other things. These actions, we contend, as in the murder of Joel and Isaiah cannot be condoned. We hold that there is absolutely no reason nor justification for this sort of action. We abhor the criminal acts perpetuated as we wish those who have been hurt a speedy and full recovery.
We are equally upset by the irresponsible statements which we have seen emanating from certain quarters. Those provocative and clearly uncalled for statements have, in our view, served to fan the flames and have contributed to an exacerbation of the situation. This is not the way responsible leaders should act. To this end, the Federation has seen some seeking desperately to invoke political and ethnic considerations. Such sentiments cannot be tolerated as the only serve to undermine the general unity that all Guyanese share. It appears tensions are being stoked at the altar of political expediency but we ask to what end? Such behaviour, we contend, must be rejected by all right-thinking and peace-loving Guyanese. This is not the way our people should live and we should reject those who seek to drive wedges and to divide our people for partisan purposes.
The FITUG, at this time, reiterates its call for justice to prevail. We urge that our law enforcement officials’ leave no stone unturned and those responsible must be dealt with within the confines of the law. The Federation holds that we as a people and a nation have matured and we must behave responsibly and act respectfully. We equally call for an end to the violence and to allow the healing process to begin and for peace to prevail. We contend that it is in our collective interest for us all to work together to promote a united Guyana for this and future generations.
