THE National Toshaos Council (NTC) has issued a strong condemnation of Kaieteur News, accusing the newspaper of publishing a “malicious, sensationalist and dangerously irresponsible” article in its May 19 edition under the headline, “Toshaos’ head criticises media, citizens who protest for justice for Adriana Younge.”
In a statement released on Tuesday, the NTC described the article as a “deliberate and calculated distortion of the truth,” saying it was intended to smear the character of NTC Chairman, Derrick John and discredit the work of the Council.

“The headline represents a gross and unforgivable betrayal of the basic principles of journalistic integrity,” the Council said. “It demonstrates an alarming willingness by Kaieteur News to weaponise tragedy for political mischief.”

The NTC clarified that the speech in question, delivered by Chairman John during the opening of the NTC Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, was publicly streamed and entirely devoid of any mention of the late Adriana Younge, whose tragic case has sparked national protests.
Instead, the Council noted, the Chairman’s remarks were “measured and thoughtful,” calling for respect for law and order, and highlighting the disproportionate impact that national unrest has on Indigenous communities.

“To convert these statements into a supposed attack on grieving citizens or justice advocates is wildly dishonest and despicable,” the NTC stated.
The Council further pointed out the irony that Kaieteur News sought to attack the Chairman using a speech that actually called for more responsible and accurate reporting by the media. “At no point did the Chairman reference the tragic and sensitive case of Adriana Younge,” the NTC emphasised. “To suggest otherwise is a cruel manipulation of public sentiment aimed at stoking confusion, division, and hostility.”

According to the Council, the article amounted to a targeted media assault not only on the Chairman but on Indigenous leadership as a whole. “This is an affront to every elected Toshao, every Indigenous community, and every citizen who values truth, fairness, and responsible democratic engagement,” the statement read.
The NTC has called on Kaieteur News to immediately retract the article, issue a full and public apology, and recommit itself to ethical journalism.
Reaffirming its support for Chairman John, the Council concluded:
“We will not be intimidated by malicious media spin or political sabotage. This Council will continue to represent and advocate for the rights, dignity, and well-being of Guyana’s First Peoples.”