Oct 23, 2026
3 min read
Children must not bear the brunt of adult conflicts, Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud told a vigil for six-year-old Orlando Jaikarran in Bath on Thursday evening.
Persaud spoke at a candlelight vigil at the Bath Community Centre Ground, West Coast Berbice, where parents, teachers, pupils and residents gathered to honour Orlando, affectionately known as "Lil Boy".
She called on parents to ensure that anger, frustration and personal conflicts are never directed at children.
"I want every parent here to commit that no matter how angry you are, no matter how you are affected by anything, don't take it out on your children. I beg of you," Persaud said, adding that "They don't deserve it. Don't do that. Children must not be made to bear the brunt of adult emotions and adult discord and conflict."
She also urged parents to listen to their children, believe them when they speak out and ensure they always have a safe place to turn.
"Let them know that you are their safety net. Let them know that you are their refuge. And listen to your children. If they tell you something, believe it. Don't dismiss it," she said.
Persaud said she was still struggling to comprehend the tragedy and that the actions of anyone responsible must not be excused or justified.
"When I learned of this devastating tragedy that has shaken a region, a community, and a country, I could not believe. I still can't," she said.
She called for a thorough investigation and prosecution.
"I expect a thorough investigation. I expect prosecution. That is why the law is here. I expect the harshest penalty for anyone who committed this. No holds barred," she said.
Persaud urged the Bath community and residents across Region Five to strengthen their relationships, support one another and remain vigilant in safeguarding children, warning against letting differences divide communities.
"If we don't protect and love our children, who will?" she asked.
She also highlighted the need to support Orlando's classmates and teachers, and called for counselling and therapy so the children could process their grief.
"Don't for a second think that they are not grieving in their own way. Don't for a second think that they won't miss Orlando because they will," she said.
The Childcare and Protection Agency has intervened since Orlando's death and continues to provide care and comfort, she said. She stressed, however, that child protection must not be left solely to government agencies or schools.
"Let tonight not be the end of it. Let us not see this as something we go past," Persaud said.
Orlando's body was found in the Waterloo Main Canal near the sea dam at Bath Settlement on Tuesday, October 20. His father, Bharrat Jaikarran, was remanded to prison on Friday on a charge of murdering him.
