ERC warns against recirculation of old social media post amid elections

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) today cautioned against the recirculation of a 2020 social media post during the election period, saying it appeared aimed at stoking racial tensions.

In a statement, the ERC said the post had been addressed at the time in line with its constitutional mandate. After an inquiry, it treated the post as part of a broader campaign against racial incitement, publishing public notices that named several “persons of interest” for inflammatory and racially divisive remarks.

The commission said it was “concerned” that the post had resurfaced at a sensitive moment and viewed its circulation as an attempt “to excite and stoke racial tensions and hostility among the people of Guyana.”

It warned that such actions undermine national unity and risk fueling ethnic mistrust.

Under Article 212D of Guyana’s constitution, the ERC is tasked with promoting harmony and good relations among the country’s ethnic groups. The body urged citizens to act responsibly on social media and avoid sharing material 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,” it said.

The ERC encouraged members of the public to report incidents directly to the commission for action.