By Mark DaCosta-In a recent statement, veteran trade unionist Lincoln Lewis drew attention to what he described as a troubling development surrounding the arrest of embattled businessmen Nasar “Shell” Mohamed and his son-turned-politician Azruddin Mohamed, and their potential extradition. Lewis argued that beyond the circumstances of any single individual, the matter strikes at the core of the fundamental rights guaranteed to every citizen under the Constitution of Guyana. He stressed that unwavering adherence to the principle of the presumption of innocence is essential to the preservation of justice and order in society, cautioning that any departure from this standard could lead the nation down a path toward chaos and tyranny.
The developments unfolding surrounding the Mohameds, who have become figures of significant public interest, underscore a broader discourse regarding the protection of citizens’ rights in our republic. Lewis poignantly asserts that this case should not be seen as the plight of the wealthy but as a reflection of potential injustice facing all. He argues convincingly that the foundations of our legal system rest on the principle that every person, regardless of their social status, is entitled to due process, which is not a privilege, but a fundamental right embedded in our laws.
He recalls the atmosphere of fear and distrust that enveloped our country in the mid-2000s, referencing the haunting words of the late Chancellor and Attorney General, Keith Massiah SC. Massiah’s minority report during the Gajraj Commission poignantly reiterated that even those accused of the gravest crimes are entitled to fair representation and a just hearing. Lewis echoes this sentiment, emphasising that “justice is not a privilege for the few,” reminding us that the expression of law must apply universally, lest it be wielded as a tool of oppression against the vulnerable.
Moreover, Lewis highlights a concerning trend: the potential for selective application of justice. He warns that while the Mohameds may have the resources to secure legal representation, the average citizen — the worker, the farmer, the single parent — may find themselves powerless, facing injustice without the means to defend their rights. “Once the door to injustice is opened, it will not stop until it reaches your doorstep,” he states, underscoring the interconnected fate of all citizens. This warning is not merely rhetorical but a vital call to action for all Guyanese to recognise the ramifications of a system that does not uphold equality before the law.
In his commentary, Lewis reiterates the obligation of the Mohameds, particularly young Mohamed as he assumes a parliamentary role, to act in service of the people of our nation. The public expects fairness, respect, and an adherence to the democratic principles that our forebears fought for, rather than favouritism based on wealth or social standing.
Reflecting on our historical struggle for self-governance and equality, Lewis recalls the efforts that culminated in our independence. He stresses the importance of maintaining our sovereignty against both foreign pressures and the internal machinations of powerful political entities. Our rights, as established in our constitution, must remain a robust bulwark against any external affronts or domestic exploitation.
As Lewis passionately argues, the time to defend our democratic values is now. His clarion call urges all Guyanese to stand firm in protecting our sovereign rights and the sanctity of our institutions. To falter in this duty would be a betrayal of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom and a peril to the rights of future generations. He encapsulates this truth with alarming clarity: “when the rights of one are trampled, the rights of all are threatened.”
Lewis’ statements serve as both a warning and a rallying cry. His reflection on the current situation urges us to remain vigilant against encroachments on our rights, reminding us that the path to justice should be clear, unfettered, and accessible to every citizen, irrespective of their social standing. The fight for rights is ongoing, and now more than ever, we must ensure that no one’s rights are diminished, lest we all face the consequences of such an injustice.
