Former Georgetown Mayor Pt. Ubraj Narine has called for a thorough, impartial and transparent investigation into the brutal killing of six-year-old Orlando Jaikarran of Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice, warning that religious authority must never be used to manipulate vulnerable people or shield criminal conduct.
In a statement issued on Friday, Narine condemned the child’s death as a senseless act of violence and urged the authorities to ensure that anyone found responsible is brought before the courts and held accountable under the law.
The killing has left Orlando’s family and community grieving, while Narine said the tragedy underscored society’s collective responsibility to protect children and ensure their safety and well-being.
“No child deserves to have their life taken in such a cruel manner.”
Narine, a Hindu, invoked the religious principle of Ahimsa, which promotes non-violence, compassion and respect for life. He rejected any attempt to justify violence against an innocent child through religious or spiritual beliefs.
“No act of violence against an innocent child can be justified in the name of religion, spirituality, or any sacred tradition.”
His statement also raised concerns about the misuse of religious titles, spiritual authority and claims of divine powers to manipulate vulnerable individuals or encourage harmful conduct.
“Genuine spirituality must promote peace, moral responsibility, compassion, and harmony within families and communities. No individual should be permitted to use religion as a shield for criminal behaviour.”
Narine did not identify any individual in connection with those concerns but stressed that the investigation must proceed without prejudice or interference.
“I therefore call on all relevant authority to conduct a thorough, impartial, and transparent investigation into this tragedy and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought before the courts and held accountable in accordance with the law. Justice must be pursued without prejudice, fear, or favour.”
His call places emphasis on establishing the facts surrounding the child’s death and ensuring accountability through the courts, regardless of any individual’s religious standing or claimed spiritual authority.
Narine extended condolences and prayers to Orlando’s family, acknowledging the profound grief caused by the loss of a young child.
“At this painful time, my heartfelt condolences and prayers are with Orlando’s family. May they find strength and comfort amid their unimaginable grief, and may the nation unite in protecting our children and preventing such tragedies from occurring again.”
The former mayor urged Guyanese to unite in defence of children’s safety and the values of compassion and respect for life.
“Let us stand together for justice, compassion, the protection of every child, and the true values of our faith.”
Narine’s statement concluded with a call for justice, compassion and a renewed national commitment to protecting children from violence and abuse.
