Gov’t condemns attack on gay rights activist

Almost two weeks after Managing Director of the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), Joel Simpson was attacked and beaten, the Ministry of Social Protection has issued a statement condemning the act.

“The Ministry wishes to place on record that the recent attack is completely unwarranted and a veil threat to silencing critical civic voices on national issues, thereby reducing the scope for genuine advocacy in Guyana,” the Ministry noted in a statement Wednesday.

According to the Ministry, the recent attack is a stark reminder that despite the many gains that have been made over the last decades, LGBT+ people continue to face threats of violence.

“LGBT people should be able to feel safe at work, in the streets and to be accepted for who they are,” the statement disclosed.

The Ministry noted that the administration is committed to protecting and promoting the dignity and freedom of every human being.

“We believe that every individual has rights that are inherent and inviolable,” adding that the Constitution of Guyana guarantees the respect of human dignity and protection from cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.

The Constitution also prohibits the violation of the right to freedom from torture and ill treatment, which is a non- delegable right.

Simpson was left nursing injuries to his abdomen and arms after he was attacked and beaten by six men at the Bourda Market at around 4am on June 16.

Prior to the savage beating, Simpson and his friends were bullied by the same men at a night club on Main Street, Georgetown.

On Wednesday, Commander of ‘A’ Division, Marlon Chapman told the News Room that no one has yet been arrested in connection with the incident.