NACTA: Crime takes a toll on nation

Dear Editor,
According to the findings of the latest opinion poll conducted by the North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA), crime is the main concern among virtually every person in the country. The fear of becoming a victim of crime is taking a toll on people with almost everyone saying do not feel safe in their home or in the street or at public places or even at place of employment. There is widespread disillusionment with the government’s handling of the crime wave even among supporters of the coalition government with many saying the government needs to step up its activism against violent criminals.
The poll, conducted over the last week, randomly interviewed respondents to reflect the demographics of the population, on current issues and favorability (likeability) ratings of several politicians including potential or approved Presidential nominees. The poll was conducted by this writer, Vishnu Bisram.
According to the findings of the poll, people are deeply troubled by crime, poor governance, corruption, rising cost of living, economy, political instability, and perceived racism, among other concerns. But their immediate priority is their personal safety from runaway crime. Many say the crime situation transcends politics and that politicians, political parties, and everyone, regardless of political affiliation, should work together to find a solution to the rising crime rate because crime affect supporters of all parties.
Almost everyone expresses a fear for their personal safety with some describing Guyana as a failed state and expressing a wish for a visa to migrate permanently. Business people in particular are worried about the impact of crime on business and express a fear they could become the next victim of a violent robbery as happened to so many business persons. Everyone expresses sympathy and shares a concern for the latest East Coast robbery (cambio) shooting victims. They urge the government to find the killers and bring them to justice. They say much work is needed to transform the police into an effective force to combat spiraling crime. They also call on the government to take tougher actions to arrest or deter criminal lawlessness in the society.
Respondents were asked about the contracts with oil companies. A large majority is not supportive of the current contract arrangement with oil companies in exploiting the country’s large reservoir of oil. They feel that the contract with Exxon/Mobile and other oil companies should be re-negotiated for improved terms of conditions that give Guyana more revenues. Some even say Guyana will not benefit from oil and that the natural resource should remain where it is.

Yours truly,
Vishnu Bisram (PhD)