Georgetown, Guyana – October 13, 2023 — In a significant legal victory that has drawn attention across the nation, politically-motivated charges against Cde. Carl Parker and Cde. Godfrey Williams have been decisively dismissed in the Lethem Magistrate Court today. The charges, which included “Damage to Government Properties” and “Threatening Behaviour” against Cde. Carl Parker, as well as “Trespass at Night” against Cde. Godfrey Williams was at the center of a contentious legal battle that has raised questions about the independence of the Guyana Police Force.
Attorney-at-Law Darren Wade, representing Cde. Carl Parker and Cde. Godfrey Williams hailed the court’s decision as a victory for justice and a blow against politically-motivated charges. Wade emphasized that these charges had been brought forward at the behest of the People’s Progressive Party Administration, sparking concerns about the use of law enforcement to settle political scores.
The charges of “Damage to Government Properties” and “Threatening Behaviour” against Cde. Carl Parker were dismissed a few weeks ago by the same court, and today, the charge of “Trespass at Night” against Cde. Godfrey Williams met the same fate.
The court’s meticulous scrutiny of the case revealed a crucial lack of evidence from the State regarding its ownership of the alleged Government Property R#7. Furthermore, it was established that the property was occupied by the People’s National Congress (PNC), the political party to which both Cde. Carl Parker and Cde. Godfrey Williams are affiliated. This revelation played a pivotal role in the rightful dismissal of the trespassing charge, as there was no substantiated proof of unauthorized entry. The State failed to establish a compelling case against the accused.
In a surprising turn of events, Police Inspector Kemron Alfred, during cross-examination, not only acknowledged his awareness of the property’s occupant, the PNC but also disclosed a crucial detail. Inspector Alfred confirmed that he had sought permission from Attorney-at-Law Darren Wade and General Secretary Dawn Hasting before entering the compound in April 2023. This revelation, among other revelations, further supported the case for the dismissal of the charges.
The court’s decision has been met with relief and celebration by supporters of Cde. Carl Parker and Cde. Godfrey Williams. It also raises important questions about the impartiality of law enforcement agencies and the need to ensure that legal proceedings are free from political interference.
As the legal chapter in this matter comes to a close, attention will now turn to the broader implications for the political landscape in Guyana and the protection of individual rights and freedoms. The dismissal of these charges serves as a reminder that the justice system remains a critical pillar of democracy, safeguarding the rights of all citizens.
