THE EDITOR, Sir:
WEDNESDAY MAY 4, 2005, the shocking news of the brutal slaying of three policemen and two Security Guards sent shock waves throughout the nation. I grieve with the relatives who have lost loved ones and these vicious acts by the criminal elements must be condemned in no uncertain terms. However, the minister of security, the government and the security forces' efforts (with all good intentions) will be stymied because the scourge that is spreading like wild fire has its roots not only in the ghetto/inner-cities but in areas where we least expect. Therefore they need to turn the searchlights in other areas. Crime is like a sore, which if not treated, will fester and spread. What we have is a societal problem and we need to put aside the hypocrisy and get to the root of the problem.
"US AND THEM"
I am not trying to justify wrongdoing by the criminal elements, but there's a stigma that is attached to some of the less fortunate amongst us that causes them to feel inferior. Hence, they adopt the attitude that it is "us and them". They need to be assured that notwithstanding their limitations they are special human beings and we need to shower them with love and respect.
We need to understand that everyone, not just some persons, but mothers, fathers, children and relatives from all strata of the society and even the gunmen that pull the trigger, are hurting. I am of the belief that if some of us were privy to the thinking of the latter and were to do an assessment of our findings, then our crime-fighting strategies would be more effective.
There needs to be a renewal of minds, heart, spirit and soul. This will/can only be done when there is justice and equality for all. We need to start praying for this renewal. Therefore, I strongly suggest that the National Prayer Preakfast that caters only to a chosen few, be replaced with a special (yearly) day of prayer at a venue such as the National Stadium or the Arena that will facilitate every man, woman, boy and girl, not only the uptowners but to the people from the ghetto/inner cities. We need to go out in the highways and by-ways and bus in these people as if it were a political rally and join hands in prayer for the healing and cleansing of the nation. This approach might even influence some of the wrongdoers to participate.
Finally, Sir, I would suggest that an "adopt a family" programme be developed to assist the less fortunate in our midst.
I am, etc.,
V.L.C
Barbican
vcluin@hotmail.com
