When ignorance is not Bliss…THE DELAY OVER POLICE CHIEF

KNOWLEDGEABLE sources are saying there may be sinister attempts to undercut the work of the Police Service Commission. 

This, according to the sources, pertains to the appointment of a Commissioner of Police. 

The Commission was unable to complete its work for the timely appointment of a police chief. 

As a result, Gary Griffith was named Acting Commissioner when his substantive three-year term expired on August 17. 

The Commission, headed by Bliss Seepersad, had to interview applicants for the post, make a shortlist with recommendations, and submit its proposals to President Paula Mae Weekes. 

The matter is then due to go before Parliament. 

Seepersad and her team have come under fire for their tardiness. 

The Express newspaper said “it would appear that everyone except the Police Service Commission was aware” that Griffith’s term was coming to an end. 

The Express fumed that the Commission “feels no need to even offer an explanation to the public for its failure to deliver on its responsibility in a timely fashion.” 

But a source said that “certain entanglements” may have been put in the path of the Commission by senior political operatives. 

“There was more than the mortar in the pestle,” the source said. 

The government has been indecisive on its position with respect to the reappointment of Griffith. 

The matter has been discussed by the National Security Council, headed by Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley. 

The government reportedly acknowledges Griffith’s national popularity but is bothered by his vocal and aggressive manner. 

There are also concerns of him having political designs. 

Several pro-government social media commentators have been criticising Griffith in recent days. 

The Commission may have found itself “in a difficult position,” the source said, with subtle pressure being placed on Seepersad and fellow commissioners. 

“This appointment is unlike any other in recent history,” he stated “and the Commission is likely facing unusual challenges in completing its duties.” 

A survey said that Griffith has 69 per cent popularity rating. 

The Express opined that the incumbent “has made the position a lightning rod for high-voltage public opinion.”