The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the tragic Lindo Creek Massacre has heard the testimonies of several persons, except, members of the political opposition. Today, on the anniversary of the tragic event, the CoI’s Commissioner, Justice Donald Trotman called for the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to contribute to the proceedings.
Trotman told media operatives at a memorial service held earlier this week at the Brickdam Cathedral that the opposition has “certain reservations” relating to the inquiry. He expressed hope nonetheless that those doubts will be removed after the opposition has time to reconsider its position. He said, too, that it is necessary for the opposition to participate in the CoI so that the nation can benefit from its opinions.
But Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo noted today at his press conference that his party would not be involved in the CoI. Jagdeo reminded that in the beginning, the government did not allow the PPP to be part of the drafting of the CoI’s Terms of Reference. Jagdeo also stated that the CoI thus far has been a platform for nothing but rumors.
The PPP’s concerns are also rooted in the fact that Justice Trotman is a relative of Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman.
The Commission is reportedly compiling reports to be submitted to President, David Granger. Justice Trotman could not commit to a date as to when the reports will be submitted to the Head of State.
Those who lost their lives back in July 2008 in the Massacre are Compton Speirs, Horace Drakes, Nigel Torres, Bonny Harry, Clifton Wong, Lancelot Lee, Dax Arokium, and Cedric Arokium.
