Dear Editor,
This is my third letter for official publication regarding the tragic murder of Adrianna Younge. I have committed to following this matter through to the end, until justice is served for her parents, siblings, loved ones, and for the people of Guyana.
It pains me deeply to witness the varying and often insensitive comments surrounding this case. An innocent young life has been stolen from her family, church, school, and community, yet those in authority; starting with President Irfaan Ali, ask us to accept an unclear narrative that she did not die by forced drowning. How does he know this? Was it conclusively stated in the pathologist’s report? Why is the President so personally involved in giving statements that should come from the Guyana Police Force?
To date, key officials have remained publicly silent. Minister Robeson Benn, under whose portfolio the Guyana Police Force falls; Mr. Clifton Hicken, Commissioner of Police; and Mr. Wendell Blanhum, Crime Chief, have made no statements or held press briefings. Is this acceptable in a democratic society? The silence suggests a troubling effort to shield certain interests while hoping the memory of Adrianna Younge will fade, as if she never existed.
Furthermore, it has been fifteen (15) days (at the time of penning this letter) since the fire at the Double Day Hotel, yet the Guyana Fire Service has failed to issue even a preliminary report on the cause. Typically, the Fire Service responds within days. Why the delay? Is there a different standard being applied in this case?
As we approach national elections later this year, I urge fellow Guyanese to reflect deeply. A government seeking reelection must not only build roads and bridges but also uphold justice and accountability. Since assuming office in August 2020, the PPP/C administration has prioritized enriching its friends, family, and favourites at the expense of ordinary citizens and our national resources.
This must not continue. It is time for a new direction in 2025. Many citizens remain silent out of fear, fear of a vindictive administration known for targeting those who exercise their constitutional rights, including freedom of expression under Article 146 of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.
I close by appealing to all readers, the time for change is 2025. Our country cannot afford another year under the PPP/C, led by Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, now effectively in his fifth consecutive year as the nation’s de facto leader. Our nation needs to breathe.
Let us vote with Adrianna Younge in mind. Let us remember the Henry Boys, Nareh Singh, Ronaldo Peters, Dan Fogenay, Orin Boston, Quindon Bacchus, and all others who lost their lives under unresolved and troubling circumstances. Justice for them begins with change.
Let us remember the words of 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Let us pray for the souls of the departed and for the courage to speak and act boldly in their memory.
Yours truly,
Annette Ferguson, MP
