THE decision by President Bharrat Jagdeo and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) not to allow the media to attend the GDF conference and for taking the alleged torture issue lightly, has come under fire and heavy attacks by the PNCR and the Guyana Press Association (GPA).

The PNCR has deemed the act as dictatorial and a mugging of democracy. The GPA viewed the act as a slap in the face of press freedom.

The Executive reserves the right within a democratic framework to determine the scope and nature of media coverage. This President gives regular press briefings. The Guyana Press Association does not determine the nature and scope of the Army media coverage.

To my knowledge the President has not, in any way, violated any press freedom. So why is there such a hullabaloo?

It seems as thought the PNC is looking for a “fly by night” investigation and swift action into the alleged torture incident. Such a serious issue needs careful and thorough investigation.

The GDF has commenced its own investigation and as is effected in most countries. So let’s not jump on the propaganda machine of the PNCR and the GPA.
VANESSA THOMAS