NFL calls for inquiry into Rodney's death
--Laments that 24 years after his death, the historian's killers are still free
Guyana Chronicle
June 13, 2004

Related Links: Articles on politics
Letters Menu Archival Menu


NATIONAL Front Alliance in a press statement yesterday called on the Government of Guyana to appoint a Commission of Inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the assassination of Walter Rodney and bring to justice those found responsible.

Today marks the 24 anniversary of Dr Rodney's death, and according to the release, his killers are still free.

The release stated that Rodney was assassinated on June 13, 1980 by the People's National Congress dictatorship because he fought to bring democracy to "our troubled land".

The National Front Alliance said that although it is supportive of the day in recognition of his memory, the anniversary should not be allowed to become an annual exercise of curtsying to memories, designed to lessen the conscience of those who have become quite comfortable with the giving of 'lip service' to him.

The release also claimed that the failure of the Government to prosecute those responsible for Rodney's death shows their dislike of the world-renowned historian.

National Front Alliance also made it clear that no longer would the body tolerate lip service from the administrative system.

"It was Rodney, who demonstrated the way to defeat the People's National Congress dictatorship, which had reduced all apposition to its rule to whimpering kittens. Today, that feline state of comfort best describes the main beneficiaries of Rodney's sacrifice. Their reluctance to prosecute indicates the contempt they really have for this great man and the ideas of self-emancipation he bequeathed to the nation," the NFL release noted.