By Mark DaCosta- The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) is calling for essential reforms in the Guyana Police Force (GPF), highlighting the need for a transformation from a militaristic approach to a community-oriented police service. The GHRA criticises current practices that distance the police from the communities they serve and calls for a collaborative effort to overhaul policing in the country.
In an October 22, 2024 press release, GHRA, addressing the ongoing controversy surrounding President Irfaan Ali’s confirmation of the appointment of acting Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken, which has sparked a constitutional debate between the ruling party and the opposition. While Attorney-General Anil Nandlall defends the legality of the promotion, opposition lawyers argue that the Constitution permits only extensions of tenure for officers exceeding retirement age, not promotions.
The GHRA notes that compounding this constitutional debate are serious allegations surrounding Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus and his financial dealings within the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).
Brutus disclosed that he deposited G$46.5 million in cash, claiming that his salary and generous benefits from his position made his wealth accumulation unproblematic.
However, the SOCU affidavit raises concerns about an additional G$500 million held in various bank accounts under his name and that of his family, leading to questions about the ethics and accountability of senior police officials.
The GHRA’s release points out the disconnect between the GPF and the civilian population, emphasising that the mandated retirement age of 55 years places police officials out of touch with the public’s perspective, where many view individuals in their fifties as being at the height of their professional abilities.
Furthermore, the report highlights the lavish perks enjoyed by high-ranking officers, which include free housing, transportation, security services, and allowances. Such benefits are starkly contrasted with the significant amounts of money involved in illicit gifts from business figures which may indicate a troubling culture of corruption within the force.
The GPF operates as a civilian entity accountable to Parliament via the Minister of Home Affairs, unlike the military-focused Guyana Defence Force, which answers directly to the President. Despite this structure, the GHRA asserts that there is no independent body overseeing the GPF, which perpetuates a cycle of impunity and a lack of accountability for police actions.
A critical examination of the GPF reveals a structure reminiscent of colonial policing, with a rigid hierarchy, excessive centralisation, and an overwhelming focus on crime-fighting rather than community engagement. The current framework discourages collaboration with local communities and prioritises military-style operations over the needs of citizens. Initiatives like the Police Complaints Authority are often seen as ineffective and lacking the necessary authority to hold the GPF accountable.
The GHRA contends that the challenges facing the GPF cannot be attributed to individual officers or specific political parties, but rather stem from systemic issues that have persisted for years. Repeated calls for reform have been overshadowed by political manoeuvring, and as the economy evolves, so too must the police service, particularly in light of increasing financial flows within society.
To facilitate meaningful change, the GHRA suggests establishing a National Commission on Democratic Policing or a similar body to engage in a national dialogue about the future of policing in Guyana. Key recommendations for this reform process include:
Developing a comprehensive and cohesive reform programme that transcends political agendas.
Prioritising the shift from a militaristic mindset in policing to a community-centric approach.
Ensuring independent oversight and scrutiny of police practices.
Forming a bipartisan Oversight Body to foster broad-based support for reform initiatives.
The GHRA calls for a proactive approach that not only addresses the structural issues within the GPF but also fosters a policing model that prioritises accountability, transparency, and community collaboration.
The Guyana Human Rights Association is a non-governmental organisation committed to promoting human rights and advocating for social justice within Guyana. It plays a crucial role in raising awareness of civil rights issues and influencing policy reforms to enhance governance and accountability in the country.
