The Court of Appeal has upheld a defamation ruling in favour of Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed against social media commentator Mikhail Rodrigues, known as the “Guyanese Critic,” and his company They Break News Inc., affirming liability while ordering a reassessment of damages.
In a unanimous decision delivered by Chancellor Roxane George S.C. and Justices of Appeal Rishi Persaud and Nareshwar Harnanan, the court maintained the finding of defamation but remitted the matter to Justice Nigel Niles for a proper assessment of damages rather than the fixed award previously granted.
The case originated from a High Court ruling by Justice Niles, who had awarded Mohamed approximately $25 million in damages and costs. That decision was subsequently upheld by the Full Court comprising Justices Fidela Corbin-Lincoln and Nicola Pierre after Rodrigues appealed. The Court of Appeal’s decision effectively affirms findings made across multiple judicial levels, with only the quantum of damages now subject to further determination.
The appeal was heard on April 17, 2026. Mohamed was represented by attorney Eusi Anderson, while Rodrigues and his company were represented by Sanjeev Datadin in association with Mohanie Anganoo.
Mohamed has indicated that a portion of any damages awarded will be directed toward educational support initiatives for children, including assistance with school uniforms, meals and awards for top-performing students.
