GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Oct. 24, CMC – President Irfaan Ali has directed the Attorney General to coordinate a multi-agency task force to develop recommendations aimed at improving the safety, welfare and mental health of children in Guyana, following a series of disturbing incidents involving young people.
The decision was made during a consultative meeting on Friday involving representatives from Government, the Judiciary, the Speaker of the National Assembly, constitutional commissions, law enforcement agencies and civil society organisations.
The proposed response is expected to go beyond law enforcement, addressing issues ranging from parenting and school environments to social media exposure, music, mental health support and the role of religious and community organisations.
The announcement comes amid renewed public concern over the safety of children following several recent cases of child deaths, including the killing of six-year-old, whose father, Bharrat Jaikarran, was charged with murder and remanded to prison, while police investigations into the alleged involvement of another suspect continue.
In announcing the task force, the President’s office said the meeting had agreed that immediate and coordinated action was needed, with responsibility extending across families, schools, Government, religious organisations, law enforcement and the wider society.
Among the measures discussed were public education campaigns, greater parental support, school-based activities, psychosocial services, mentoring programmes and the promotion of healthy recreational activities for children.
The discussions also included reviewing children’s exposure to music and social media, revising laws, reconsidering law enforcement approaches and examining aspects of the administration of justice.
However, the announcement did not outline specific measures that will be introduced, identify a timeline for the task force to submit its recommendations or state when any proposed interventions would take effect.
The Attorney General is expected to coordinate the group, which will include representatives from Government, the Judiciary, law enforcement, religious organisations, civil society and other relevant stakeholders.
Its mandate is to develop a comprehensive plan of recommendations and actions for review and implementation.
CMC/gy/kb/2026