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When ‘freedom of expression’ becomes the vehicle for violent behaviour

Sep 12, 2009 Letters

Dear Editor,
It is with disbelief and utter astonishment of my observation of an incident recently, that I was compelled to make my views on the particular subject public via the letter pages.
The irresponsibility of some of our local politicians have transcended to their supporters, likewise, their non-condemnation signifies apparent approval.
This becomes all the more evident when ‘freedom of expression’ is used rather incorrectly as the vehicle for violent behaviour particularly by people who are of the belief that they hold a monopoly on intimidation and assault disguised as a ‘peaceful picket’.
This is how I choose to describe the attack on Kwame Mc Koy by PNCR, supposedly ‘peaceful picketers’, I witnessed.
While I admired the freedom this bunch had to hold their placards aloft and chant their slogans, I bemoan the fact that their action impinged on Mr. Mc Koy’s right to freedom of movement also. This is the sort of bullyism that no longer has a place in our society.
Mr. Mc Koy was simply attempting to leave a function he had earlier attended on Vlissengen Road, when he was set upon by this group who banged and shook the vehicle he was in, amidst the hurling of insults.
The police officers present did nothing except to stand their distance laughing and possibly enjoying the drama. What was even more distasteful was the fact that this blatant act of transgression was witnessed by my kids and an overseas visitor who accompanied us.
This kind of behaviour certainly highlights a mentality that is repressive and reflects the need for some serious education among our people who seem by their actions, idled and misguided, and those among them who succeeded in sustaining their ignorance.
Dave Martindale

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