The Constitution is what binds us all together. It is the one thing that we have all, together agreed on that will guide our dealings with each other. It serves as an arbiter when we have to deal with one another. We cannot all have the same opinion on any one thing but we are all united on the supremacy of the law.
Thus, when the constitution says that one should not be detained for more than seventy two hours without either being taken to court or released, it is for the purpose of upholding the Rule of Law. This is the law and we can’t ignore it when it suits us and try to uphold it when it suits us.
More than four or five days ago, officers of the Police Intervention Unit were detained for allegedly using life bullets in Faraba leading to the death of at least three people and injuries to a number of people.
Since then, Mr President, you have indeed risen to expectations and set up a Commission of Inquiry into that incident. You have also appointed a coroner to determine the cause of death of the deceased. These steps are commendable.
However, the fact that these officers have still not been charged or released is worrying. Of course it is understandable that there may be complex issues relating to this incident and that perhaps authorities have a genuine reason to hold these officers in custody, that has to be weighed against contravening the constitution.
The good news is that the constitution has provided a solution to such difficulties when we are in such a dilemma. It is clearly stated that when the authorities need to keep a suspect in custody beyond the stipulated seventy two hours, they should seek such permission from the courts.
Your government has shown clearly that you will not interfere with the courts and that our justice system is – will continue to be – as independent as they should be. Thus, it will be correct and commendable for the IGP to seek such injunction from the courts. This will serve double purpose. It will send a clear signal that your government is upholding the Rule of Law and as well protect the rights of the suspects.
This is what will bring faith in your government so that everyone in the country will have the full confidence that his/her rights will always be protected and that no one will violate their rights. That confidence is what will enable everyone have peace of mind and keep the peace.
I therefore suggest that the officers of the PIU who are in custody be either charged or released. This us what will ensure that your government is not accused of human rights violations.
Have a Good Day Mr President…
Tha Scribbler Bah
A Concerned Citizen
