The Guyana Press Association (GPA) has issued a press statement condemning recent remarks by Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr. Nadir, regarding media access during parliamentary sessions. The association asserts that his comments made during the 3rd Sitting of the House on February 2 and 3 contained significant misrepresentations.
The GPA clarified that the Speaker erroneously implied there exists a current agreement between the GPA and the Parliament Office of Guyana. They emphasized that the agreement he referred to was specifically related to media coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic and became obsolete following the lifting of restrictions in March 2022. According to the GPA, the National Assembly has since allowed more than five reporters and private TV cameras access to the chamber.
Furthermore, the GPA criticized the Speaker for referencing Standing Order 110 regarding media permissions, questioning the lack of clarity on the rules that govern media access. They called for transparency about the established guidelines that would allow the National Assembly to limit access to a select few reporters.
The statement also addressed the Speaker’s alleged misunderstanding regarding the use of cell phones for recording parliamentary proceedings. The GPA informed the Speaker that mobile devices cannot effectively replace professional video equipment, challenging his justification for limiting the number of reporters present.
The GPA went on to dispute the claim of a reliable audio-video feed for media coverage. They stated that there has been no direct feed provided to cameras inside the assembly, and the linked service from the Department of Public Information (DPI) is often unreliable.
Moreover, the GPA reiterated its opposition to the Speaker’s decision to exclude all cameras except those operated by the DPI, which they claim has no formal agreement to provide video links to the media. They also asserted that there is ample space within the assembly to accommodate additional reporters and camerapersons.
In light of these developments, the GPA characterized the Speaker’s restrictions as an assault on media freedom, negatively impacting the transparent coverage of parliamentary activities. They highlighted prior engagements with the Speaker and the Minister of Public Information back in 2020, indicating that no current agreement exists regarding media access.
As the 2026 Budget presentation approached, members of the media raised concerns with the GPA regarding potential limitations on coverage due to accommodation issues. Following discussions between GPA representatives and parliamentary officials, the GPA felt their concerns were valid, but the Speaker maintained his stance of restricting media access to only five members.
Despite attempts by the GPA President, Iva Wharton, and Executive Member, Gordon Moseley, to engage with the Speaker for resolution, they were met with refusal. On Budget Day, Wharton was summoned for a meeting where she reiterated the media’s concerns, but the Speaker stood firm on his restrictive policy.
The GPA concluded by stating that they were not consulted further by the Speaker or any parliamentary representatives regarding media access, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in covering parliamentary proceedings effectively.
