Guyana Roundup: Project to half electricity costs, Indian PM Modi’s visit, transgender violence

State ordered to pay $24 million for man unlawfully murdered by police

The High Court of Guyana has delivered a landmark ruling, ordering the State to compensate $24 million for the unlawful killing of Quindon Bacchus, a father of one who was shot dead by police in 2022. Investigations revealed serious inconsistencies in the police’s account of events that led to Bacchus being shot six times during an alleged undercover operation involving an unlicensed firearm. This ruling by Justice Nigel Niles not only provides recognition of the breach of Bacchus’s right to life but also aims to advance police accountability in Guyana.

Guyana president says new project to half electricity costs 

Guyana President  Irfaan Ali has announced a transformative Gas-to-Energy project expected to reduce electricity costs by half within the next year. This 300 MW natural gas-fired plant at Wales, in the disputed Essequibo region will tap into resources from the Stabroek Block, Offshore Guyana and aims for integration into the national grid by 2025. However, the project is encountering delays due to ongoing arbitration, which could see the contractor facing significant financial penalties for these setbacks. In addition to this project, the government is exploring further energy capacity enhancements through additional natural gas plants and renewable energy projects.

Indian PM Modi expected in Guyana

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is poised for a historic visit to Guyana, marking a notable event as it is the first visit by an Indian PM since 1968. During his three-day visit, agreements on energy and defence are anticipated, alongside meetings with President Ali and speeches to the Guyanese parliament. He will also engage in a Caricom-India Summit focusing on improved collaboration in energy, agriculture, health, and technology.

Guyana the first developing nation to submit climate transparency report

Guyana has become the first developing nation to submit a Biennial Transparency Report (BTR) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This report details Guyana’s greenhouse gas emissions and national climate strategies in adherence to the Enhanced Transparency Framework of the Paris Agreement. 

Migrant horrors and violence against transgender women in Guyana

The Inter-American Human Rights Commission has highlighted the challenges faced by migrants, sex workers, and transgender women in Guyana related to gender-based violence. The testimony of activists and government representatives revealed systemic issues that exacerbate vulnerability, including fear of legal repercussions for seeking help among migrant women. The government, led by Minister Gail Teixeira, is reportedly advancing legislative measures to support these vulnerable populations, reaffirming its commitment to uphold the rights of all women in Guyana and to address the scourge of violence against them.