The sentencing of two men on Monday for violating protection orders serves as a necessary and firm response to the ongoing scourge of violence against women in Guyana. The cases of Ronald Balgobin, sentenced to eight months in prison, and Ravi Nickram, sentenced to four months, highlight the critical role of legal enforcement in safeguarding victims. These rulings send an unambiguous message that breaches of protection orders would not be tolerated, and perpetrators would face serious consequences.
Balgobin’s case is particularly alarming. Not only did he breach a protection order against his ex-girlfriend, Basmattie “Penny” Bassant, but he was also charged with abduction — a grave offence. His actions reflect a blatant disregard for the law and the safety of his victim. His subsequent evasion of law enforcement, which necessitated a police manhunt, further underscores the danger he posed. Thankfully, the swift intervention of the authorities ensured that he was brought to justice. The court’s decision to hand down a prison sentence reinforces the importance of taking protection orders seriously.
Similarly, Ravi Nickram’s case illustrates the pervasive nature of violence. His violation of a protection order against his own mother, Wanita Nickram, demonstrates that domestic abuse extends beyond intimate partner violence and affects families in various distressing ways. A protection order is a legal safeguard meant to shield victims from harm, and its violation must be met with strict punitive measures. The magistrate’s ruling reaffirms that these orders are not mere suggestions, but binding legal instruments with real consequences for those who flout them.
These cases are not isolated incidents, but are part of a broader pattern of domestic violence that has, in many instances, ended in tragedy. Over the past months, we have witnessed horrific cases where breaches of protection orders have culminated in fatal violence. The courts must remain resolute in addressing such violations with the severity they deserve. The sentencing of Balgobin and Nickram should set a precedent — one that ensures that every breach of a protection order is met with firm judicial action.
The Family Violence Act of 2024 has been a significant step forward in protecting victims of abuse, and its provisions must be enforced to the fullest extent. Section 16(1), under which Balgobin was charged, and Section 32(b) of the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act, which led to Nickram’s conviction, are essential legal tools in this fight. However, laws alone are not enough. There must be a concerted effort to educate the public on the consequences of breaching protection orders and the importance of respecting the legal rights of victims.
Furthermore, law enforcement agencies must continue their vigilant efforts in tracking down offenders and ensuring that protection orders are upheld. The proactive approach taken by the police in apprehending Balgobin is commendable, and similar diligence must be applied to all cases of domestic violence. Community members also have a role to play by reporting violations and standing in solidarity with victims.
Beyond punitive measures, rehabilitation programmes for offenders should be expanded to address the root causes of abusive behaviour. While imprisonment is a necessary deterrent, true reform requires interventions that challenge and change violent mindsets. Counselling, anger management programmes, and structured reintegration plans can help prevent repeat offences and foster a culture of accountability.
At the heart of this issue is the need for society to treat domestic violence with the urgency it warrants. Protection orders are important features for victims, and their enforcement must remain a priority. We commend the courts for their strong stance, and urge continued vigilance in ensuring that breaches are met with unwavering legal consequences. Every violation must be taken seriously, and every victim must know that the justice system stands firmly on their side.
