Police Failed the Younge Family and Misled the Nation

Dear Editor,

Following the Easter celebration, our nation has been grappling with a series of tragic events that have claimed the lives of several women, including an innocent eleven-year-old girl. The brutal murders of a wife, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law, allegedly at the hands of a husband, son-in-law, and brother-in-law; are shocking. These are not normal times in our country. It appears we are wrestling against principalities and wickedness in high places. However, God has confused the enemy’s camp and is working in favor of the family.

I have been reflecting on the events surrounding the untimely and tragic death of young Adrianna Younge. Firstly, I publicly commend the resilience of her parents, family, friends, and the community to which she belonged for their tireless efforts to find her. This was not about politics; it was about humanity. The entire nation witnessed the unifying power of compassion and concern.

It is clear that the system, including the Guyana Police Force and, by extension, the Government, failed this family.

Editor, I have spoken with many people who are outraged at what happened to Adrianna, and rightfully so. This entire situation has brought tears and anguish. The lingering question remains- Why Adrianna Younge? And for what reason?

While the Guyana Police Force is mandated to serve and protect, they failed to assist in locating Adrianna. Instead, they left her at the mercy of her killers and their enablers. Disturbingly, they seemed more intent on offering protection to suspects than on saving an innocent life.

Adrianna’s death brought back painful memories of the tragic deaths of young Isaiah and Joel Henry; whose bodies were found mutilated, and of young Naresh Singh. Sadly, the system also failed their families. The Henry family, in particular, was tormented, harassed by law enforcement, and endured the imprisonment of a family member who remains incarcerated. Their mothers died without receiving justice for their sons.

Many believe that Commander Assistant Commissioner of Police K.  Mandall failed the Younge family and misled the nation. Such a person should not hold a leadership position. His actions, or lack thereof, highlight a serious lack of training and experience in managing crises. This is what happens when individuals are parachuted into roles for which they are ill-prepared.

The Guyana Police Force is at its weakest. Additionally, it has long been apparent that Mr. Clifton Hicken is not far removed from Assistant Commissioner of Police K.  Mandall in terms of leadership ability. His poor leadership has exposed his incompetence in managing the Force.

The silence of the Rights of the Child Commission is deafening. This Commission has failed to condemn the heinous act perpetrated against young Adrianna. Ms. Arya Ali, the First Lady and a mother herself, has yet to speak publicly on the matter. Also, the lack of response from Mr. Clifton Hicken and Minister Robeson Benn is worrying.

Editor, the death of young Adrianna Younge must not be added to the long list of unsolved murders. There is a wealth of footage and photographic evidence that could help uncover the truth. Her death must mark a turning point for the many families still pursuing justice for their loved ones. I am encouraged that the family, with the support of their attorney, has refused the Government-appointed pathologist and is calling for an independent expert.

I end by expressing my deepest condolences to the parents, family, and loved ones of young Adrianna Younge. I pray that Almighty God grants you solace and peace, as the nation joins you in the pursuit of justice.

I stand in unwavering solidarity with the family of the late Adrianna Younge as they pursue truth.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Yours truly,
Annette Ferguson, MP