In any democratic society, the role of defence and security forces is paramount in ensuring the protection of the nation’s citizens and upholding the rule of law. In Guyana, a country rich in cultural diversity and natural resources, the Defence and Security Forces play a crucial role in maintaining peace and security. However, it is imperative to recognize that their allegiance lies not with individuals, but with the constitution and the people they serve.
The Defence and Security Forces in Guyana encompass various branches, including the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Guyana Police Force (GPF), and other specialized units. These forces are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, defending against external threats, and maintaining internal stability.
One of the fundamental principles guiding the actions of the Defence and Security Forces is their allegiance to the constitution of Guyana. The constitution serves as the supreme law of the land, outlining the rights and freedoms of citizens, the structure of government, and the principles of democracy. Therefore, members of the Defence and Security Forces swear an oath to uphold and defend the constitution, regardless of political affiliations or personal interests.
It is crucial to emphasize that the allegiance of the Defence and Security Forces to the constitution supersedes loyalty to individuals or political parties. This principle ensures that these forces remain impartial and independent, operating in the best interests of the nation and its people. Any attempt to politicize or manipulate the Defence and Security Forces undermines their integrity and undermines the foundations of democracy.
Moreover, members of the Defence and Security Forces are subject to legal and ethical standards, both domestically and internationally. They are bound by laws and regulations that govern their conduct and dictate the use of force. Any violation of these laws, including human rights abuses or crimes against humanity, can result in accountability and legal consequences.
The principle of accountability extends to both domestic and international courts. In Guyana, members of the Defence and Security Forces can be held responsible for their actions through the country’s legal system. Additionally, under international law, individuals who commit serious crimes, such as genocide, war crimes, or crimes against humanity, can be prosecuted in international courts, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Therefore, it is essential for members of the Defence and Security Forces to adhere to their oath, uphold the constitution, and respect the rights of all citizens. By doing so, they not only fulfill their duty to protect the nation but also contribute to the maintenance of peace, stability, and democracy in Guyana.
In conclusion, the Defence and Security Forces in Guyana play a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s security and upholding the rule of law. Their allegiance to the constitution ensures their impartiality and independence, while accountability mechanisms ensure that they are held responsible for any violations of their oath or crimes against humanity. Ultimately, the Defence and Security Forces serve as guardians of democracy, protecting the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
Excerpt for the constitution of Guyana:
LAWS OF GUYANA
Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana Cap. 1:01 1 Pg: 173
Defence and security. [7 of 2001] [5 of 2003]
TITLE 6A
DEFENCE AND SECURITY
197A. (1) The State’s defence and security policy shall be to defend national independence, preserve the country’s sovereignty and integrity, and guarantee the normal functioning of institutions and the security of citizens against any armed aggression.
(2) The Defence and Security Forces shall be subordinate to national defence and security policy and owe allegiance to the Constitution and to the Nation. The oath taken by members of the Defence and Security Forces shall establish their duty to respect the Constitution.
(3) The Guyana Defence Force established under the Defence Act shall in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities function in such a manner as to earn the respect and enjoy the confidence of citizens.
(4) The Police Force established under the Police Act shall function in accordance with the law as the law enforcement agency of the State responding to the daily need to maintain law and order by suppressing crime to ensure that citizens are safe in their homes, the streets and other places.
(5) Disciplined forces commissions may be constituted by the National Assembly from time to time, as may be necessary, with power to examine any matter relating to the public welfare, public safety, public order, defence or security, including the structure and composition of the disciplined forces and make recommendations generally with a view to promoting their greater efficiency , and giving effect to the need in the public interest that the composition of the disciplined forces take account of the ethnic constituents of the population.
(6) The provisions of the Commissions of Inquiry Act as in force immediately before the commencement of this Constitution shall, subject to the provisions of this article, apply as nearly as may be in relation to commissions appointed under the preceding paragraph or, as the context may require, to the members thereof as they apply in relation to Commissions or Commissioners appointed under that Act, and such application shall have effect as if they formed part of this Constitution.
(7) As regards the application of the Commissions of Inquiry Act pursuant to paragraph (6) –
(a) the following provisions shall not apply, that is to say –
(i) section 2 – the whole section;
(ii) section 3 – so much of the section as follows the words “in his or her place”; (iii) section 4 – the whole section;
(iv) section 5 – the whole section; LAWS OF GUYANA Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana Cap. 1:01 173 L.R.O. 1/2012 Composition of Commission. [6 of 2001]
(v) section 7 – the words “after taking such oath or affirmation”;
(vi) section 16 – the whole section;
(b) for the words ‚Such sums so directed to be paid shall be paid out of moneys provided by Parliament‛ in section 15 there shall be substituted the words “Such sums so directed to be paid shall be charged on and paid out of the Consolidated Fund”;
(c) for the words “the President” wherever they appear in the applicable provisions substitute the words “the National Assembly”.
