Justice is not served by lawlessness, and grief must not be weaponised

Dear Editor,
The Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) joins the nation in solemn reflection following the official findings released on Monday from the independent autopsy conducted on the body of Adrianna Younge. The report, corroborated by expert international pathologists, has provided critical insight into the cause of her tragic passing. We note the Government’s commitment, reiterated by His Excellency President Irfaan Ali at his press conference last evening, to ensuring a full and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s drowning and the conduct of the search and rescue operation.
The LJP supports and acknowledges the President’s expressed determination to allow the truth to guide the pursuit of justice, wherever it may lead. We further note the President’s commitment to sweeping reviews of institutional and systemic weakness and consequential interventions to rebuild trust and improve public service. We view these commitments as necessary, and welcome the assurance to a grieving family and a pained nation.
Guyana is a democratic state governed by the rule of law and a constitution that guarantees its citizens the right to protest. Peaceful protest is not only a right; it is a vital democratic tradition through which voices of concern and anguish may be heard. However, we strongly affirm that protest must never be used as a cover for criminality, nor must it descend into acts of terror against innocent citizens, destruction of public and private properties, or disruption of national life.
The chaos and violence that erupted across the country last night purportedly in the name of protest are deeply troubling. These acts are reprehensible, unjustified, and must be unequivocally condemned. The Liberty and Justice Party calls for restraint, calm, and lawful conduct by all citizens. We honour the memory of Adrianna Younge best not through rage or destruction, but through truth, compassion, justice, and unity.
We demand that all perpetrators of violence and public terror face the full force of the law. No one should exploit tragedy to commit acts that endanger public safety, national unity, and national stability.
Furthermore, the LJP finds it necessary to question the deafening silence of some of the usual voices and organisations that are often swift to criticise the Government. Their absence now, when Guyanese need civic guidance and moral support, speaks volumes.
In this difficult moment, let us remember that justice is not served by lawlessness, and grief must not be weaponised. We call on all political parties, civil society actors, and community leaders to join us in urging calm, cooperation with law enforcement, and steadfast support for the investigative process now underway.
Only together, through lawful and principled action, can we honour Adrianna’s life and contribute meaningfully to a more just and compassionate Guyana.
Choose liberty. Choose justice. Choose integrity. Choose Guyana.

Sincerely,
Lenox RO Shuman
Leader – Liberty and
Justice Party