Linden and the wider nation of Guyana are in mourning following the senseless killings of two young men, Ronaldo Peters and Dan Johnson, at the hands of police on Monday and Tuesday respectively. The tragic deaths have reignited painful memories of the violent events of July 18, 2012, when three Lindeners were shot and killed by law enforcement during a peaceful protest at the Wismar-McKenzie Bridge.
In a statement issued on April 8, 2025, Member of Parliament Annette Ferguson expressed deep sorrow over the deaths, calling the situation an unforgivable act of violence that must not be allowed to fade into the background. The police have admitted to the fatal shooting of Ronaldo Peters, yet reports indicate that Peters was unarmed when the shooting occurred, raising serious concerns over police use of force.
“Linden and the entire nation of Guyana are in mourning following these senseless killings,” Ferguson said, emphasising that the incident echoes the past atrocities committed under previous administrations.
“This tragic incident brings to mind the painful memories of July 18, 2012, when three Lindeners were shot and killed by police during a peaceful protest.”
Despite the severity of the situation, Ferguson pointed out that, as of the preparation of her statement, no representative from the Government or the Guyana Police Force had reached out to the grieving families to offer support or attempt to ease the growing tensions in the region. This lack of official response has further fueled the frustration and distrust within the community.
“The people of Linden and Guyana deserve answers. We cannot allow these deaths to simply become another statistic in the growing list of extrajudicial killings,” Ferguson stated, referencing the unresolved deaths of Orin Boston and Quindon Bacchus, who died under similar circumstances.
She pointed to the unfulfilled promises made by President Irfaan Ali, urging that the victims’ families be given the justice they have long been denied.
Ferguson echoed calls for a comprehensive investigation into the recent killings and urged for an impartial, transparent process. She also called for immediate reforms within the Guyana Police Force, stressing that the use of firearms against unarmed civilians must end. “The use of firearms against unarmed civilians is not an acceptable solution and only results in the loss of innocent lives,” she declared.
The MP concluded her statement by offering heartfelt condolences to the families of Ronaldo Peters and Dan Johnson, as well as to the people of Linden and Region #10. She promised to visit the region to offer her support in person and reaffirmed her commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
“The time for justice is now. It is time for a comprehensive evaluation and reform of the Guyana Police Force,” Ferguson said, as she joined the growing calls for accountability and lasting change.
