The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) has added its voice to growing numbers that have condemned actions by the Government of Guyana, including the magistracy and Guyana Police Force (GPF), in the continuous harassment of America-based Guyanese Rickford Burke. In a statement issued by the organisation’s Vice Chair/Communication Officer, former Mayor Pt Ubraj Narine, the body states “the reprehensible act of the GPF, exceeding its jurisdictional boundaries to serve Rickford Burke, a citizen of the United States of America [USA], is not only an abuse of power but also a stark display of politically motivated discrimination.”
Burke, who has not returned to Guyana since 1998, has been hauled before the Courts of Guyana for several offences, including sedition and cybercrime. Summons were issued for him to appear in the Vigilance Magistrates Court on 28th March 2024.
The Guyana Police Force, which has no jurisdiction outside of Guyana, travelled to the USA and reportedly served Burke on his premises. Burke denies being served but acknowledges the presence of men, carrying guns, entering on his premises, attempting to serve him, and also of persons, allegedly armed, rummaging through his mail.
In a statement the Police said Assistant Superintendent of Police Rodwell Sarabo on 13th December travelled to the USA with both defendant summons in his possession. And on 16th December Sarabo met with Mark Wesserman, a Process Server based in the USA and they served both defendant summons on Burke at his home address at Maple Street, Brooklyn, New York. “Both defendant summons were read to Rickford Burke and he said he understood,” the police states.
IFAAD, a leading organisation committed to advocating for inclusivity and equality, has expressed its outright condemnation of the recent actions carried out by the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
IFAAD shares its deep belief in the fundamental principles of justice, fairness, and the protection of individual rights. Reinforcing its belief, the body says it is distressing to witness the Force, tasked with upholding these very principles, act in such a manner that directly contradicts them.
The organisation makes known by trespassing into the domain outside their jurisdiction, the GPF has alarmingly exhibited a dangerous precedent. This infringes upon the notion of a harmonious global society, based on mutual respect for national sovereignties and the rule of law. Such actions jeopardise the trust and collaborative efforts required for effective international cooperation.”
Moreover, IFAAD warns, the utilisation of police ranks for politically motivated acts not only undermines the integrity of the institution but places its members at unnecessary risk. “The GPF’s complicity in allowing its personnel to be instruments of discrimination and harassment is deeply troubling. It not only puts the lives and wellbeing of its ranks in peril but also diminishes their ability to perform their duties without bias or fear.
To this end IFAAD is calling on all relevant authorities, within Guyana and beyond, to investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure that those responsible for these outrageous actions are held accountable. “Upholding justice, rule of law, and protecting the sanctity of individual rights must be at the forefront of any functioning democracy. No individual should face discrimination or harassment due to their nationality, political affiliations, or any other personal attributes.”
As an organisation dedicated to combating discrimination and inequality, IFAAD reasserts commitment to working alongside local and international partners to address this unjust situation, and is urging all concerned individuals, civil society organisations, and governments to join in condemning such acts of discrimination and calling for their immediate cessation.
