TINTED WINDOWS; LEGAL FOR SOME

The issue of tinted windows has once again come to the fore. It is illegal for anyone in Seychelles to use tinted windows on their vehicles. With the prevalent crime in the country, it is quite normal that this aspect of the law has to be implemented to the word. However, the police Commissioner has the final say on who to be granted permission to carry tinted windows and who will be barred.

This absurdity can be justified only by those who have a vested interest in clandestine operations. If the law forbids the use of tinted windows on vehicles, this is the way it should be. The fact that a privileged few have the sanction of the police to move about unidentified is a dangerous affair. Why should some people decide not to be seen? Is it because they will be transporting drugs and need to be protected by the state? Under what circumstances will the Commissioner of Police allow them to use tinted windows? Is it for the transfer of mistresses of the high and mighty?

The Law

For the past years, the presidential security escort has always used tinted windows but never the presidential vehicle. The president has always been visible but one wonders what it is that the public should not see in the escort vehicles. What a weird way to offer security to the head of state!! The private vehicles of many other senior government officials have also been carrying tinted windows though they drive around with transparent windows in official vehicles. Are they showing off their status and privileges or are they involved in illegal activities after working hours? What is the big deal?

While many young people find it simply trendy to have tinted windows, one cannot take it for granted that they are not carrying out illegal activities. Senior government officials should know better. With corruption rampant, is the Commissioner of Police not an accessory to the commission of crimes by allowing the use of tinted windows to a privileged few? As it is, the use of tinted windows is unfounded. There can be no reason for its use; not even a medical one. Let the law apply to everybody! The Commissioner is paid to implement the law and not to favour anybody. He must remember the credo of the force: service without fear, favour, malice or ill will.