Some four days after members of the Disciplined Forces Commission (DFC) were refused entry to inspect an army base at Lethem, the Commissioners are yet to receive an official explanation from headquarters.
DFC's Secretary Gino Persaud informed the Guyana Chronicle that no contact was made by the GDF to the DFC since the development.
A delegation led by Justice of Appeal Ian Chang, who chairs the commission, was denied entry after they were informed by the officer at the gate, that he was instructed by a captain that no permission was granted from Georgetown.
He pointed out that consultations were held with some 13 persons when the commissioners decided to visit the Police and Army base in Lethem, it was an impromptu decision he explained.
According to Mr. Persaud the inspection at the police station was hassle free but they were turned away at the GDF base.
After being informed of the denial to enter, the DFC informed the officer that he is refusing entry to the DFC, which was established by parliament and he noted that the refusal will be deliberated upon and recorded to be reflected in the report to the National Assembly.
He pointed out that the GDF is part the subject of the commission's investigation its actions could be deemed as uncooperative. He also reiterated that the DFC was set up under constitutional provisions and special legislation and the army's standing order would not supersede the powers of the commission.
He explained that a similar impromptu exercise was held last week at the Brickdam Police Station with out any difficulties.
When asked if other such visits will be held, Mr. Persaud said if it does happen it will be an impromptu decision.
DFC hearings will continue next Tuesday where the Police Complaints Authority, the Guyana Police Force and the Government of Guyana will give evidence.
The public hearings will then close and an interim report prepared for the National Assembly. The deadline for that report is November 18 2003.