ERC urges caution as 2020 post resurfaces during elections

THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has issued a clarification regarding a social media post that has resurfaced during the current election period, warning that its re-circulation appears intended to stir racial tensions in the country.

In a statement, the ERC explained that the matter in question originated in 2020 and was promptly addressed at the time in accordance with its constitutional mandate. Following an inquiry, the Commission treated the post as part of its wider campaign against racial incitement, publishing public notices that identified several “persons of interest” for inflammatory and racially divisive remarks.

The ERC noted with concern that the post has re-emerged at a sensitive moment, saying it views the renewed circulation as an attempt “to excite and stoke racial tensions and hostility among the people of Guyana.” Such actions, the body stressed, undermine national unity and risk fuelling ethnic mistrust at a time when cohesion is particularly important.
The Commission reminded the public that under Article 212D of the Constitution of Guyana, it is mandated to promote harmony and good relations among the country’s ethnic groups. It therefore urged citizens to act responsibly on social media and other platforms, and to avoid sharing content that could incite hostility or deepen divisions.

“The Commission remains committed to monitoring and addressing all incidents of racial incitement or ethnic hostility, regardless of the period in which they occur,” the statement said.
The ERC further encouraged members of the public to report any such incidents directly to the Commission for appropriate action.

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