Colonial-Era Libel Laws Under Fire as Calls Grow for Press Freedom Reforms in Guyana

By Mark DaCosta-Guyana’s colonial-era libel and defamation laws are facing renewed criticism, with calls for Parliament to repeal criminal provisions and introduce modern legislation that protects freedom of expression while safeguarding individual reputations.

The argument for reform centres on provisions in the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, which make certain forms of libel criminal offences and expose journalists and other publishers to imprisonment. Critics contend that the laws create an environment in which reporters may hesitate to investigate public officials, state contracts and allegations of wrongdoing for fear of prosecution or financially damaging litigation.

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The concern is particularly significant in an oil-driven economy where billions of dollars are flowing through the country and public scrutiny of government spending, contracts and decision-making is essential to accountability.