The recent disclosures about the activities of an execution squad and its reported link to a government official need to be independently investigated before premature judgements are rendered, the Guyana Bar Association (GBA) says.
"The GBA urges that a full, frank and independent enquiry takes place as soon as possible, so as to determine the merits of these allegations" a statement from the Bar President Khemraj Ramjattan said yesterday.
The statement follows recent allegations that link Minister of Home Affairs, Ronald Gajraj with a gang said to be responsible for executing several wanted men and suspected criminals over the last 18 months.
According to the association, an enquiry is also necessary to prevent unenlightened speculation as to the circumstances and the level of involvement, if any, of the persons who hold office.
The GBA says it stands ready, willing and able to assist in any way requested, in furtherance of such a process, the results of which, it considers, ought to find acceptance by all Guyanese.
Since the disclosures were made public, there have been several calls for the resignation of the Home Affairs Minister, whose office has been picketed by demonstrators every day of this week.
The GBA however urges that all sides refrain from arriving at any premature and unsubstantiated conclusions before all the issues are ventilated properly.
The association notes that it is a serious breach of the law to condemn a high government official without verification and scrutiny of the allegations made against him. Likewise, it notes that it is also a breach of the law when extra-judicial and extra-institutional methods become a recourse for some.