PPP/C CONDEMNS THE ATTACK ON PRESS FREEDOM 

 

The People ‘s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) is deeply saddened by the loss of more human lives at yet another massacre conducted by bandits with seeming impunity. This is without doubt a blatant act of terrorism by a murderous group seemingly centrally directed to create fear and insecurity in the population at large.

The murder of the staff at the Kaieteur News can only be seen as an attack on Freedom of the Press, a principle which democratic forces in Guyana and the world cherish. Many persons died in defending this fundamental human right and the brave four workers of Kaieteur News must be added to this list.

Coming at this time one is hard pressed not to conclude that it is also an attack on our upcoming elections. The forces behind that would like to frustrate our democratic process of which free and fair elections is at the heart.    

The PPP/C extends its deepest sympathies and solidarity to the management and staff of Kaiteur News, the families and relatives of those who died, namely, Mark Mikoo, Chitram Persaud, Eon Wigman and Richard Stewart and wish a speedy recovery for Shazim Mohamed Haimchand Haripersaud who are hospitalized. The party also extends sympathies and solidarity to the two other persons who were killed by the same group at Bagotstown East Bank Demereara. 

The PPP/C calls on all Guyanese to continue working to stop crime and violence. We urge the security forces to leave no stone unturned in bringing the murderers to justice.

August 9, 2006.

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