GCCI joins chorus against sedition clause in Cybercrime Bill

May 04, 2018 News

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) has joined the growing list of groups and individuals who oppose the inclusion of the sedition clause in the Cybercrime Bill (2016) which is currently before the National Assembly.
In a press release, the GCCI registered its concern with elements of the Cybercrime Bill, especially Section 18 which provides a structure for the charge of sedition, and more particularly 1a of Section 18.
“As an institution dedicated to advocacy, we stress that the right to freedom of expression is not only a right but a community responsibility. Therefore, we call on all legislators to remove Section 18(1) (a) of the Cybercrime Bill and urge that this bill remain free of oppressive and archaic charge of sedition,” GCCI stated.
The overall intent of the Bill is to make illegal, certain activities using a computer and over the internet, such as child pornography, cyber bullying, theft of data, and revenge porn among others.
However, there are concerns about aspects of the Bill. The most contentious is Section 18 (1) (a) of the Bill which indicates that a person commits the offence of sedition if he brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in Guyana.
According to Section 18 (1), a person can commit the offence whether in or out of Guyana by intentionally publishing, transmitting or circulating by use of a computer system or any other means, a statement or words, either spoken or written, a text, video, image, sign, visible representation, or other thing.
The penalty ranges from four months in prison to a life sentence where death occurs.
According to the GCCI, the overall thrust of the Bill is commendable, but the chamber is of the view that freedom of speech and expression of views through debate, discourse and discussions underpin a healthy democracy and foster a conducive environment for a country’s development.
Further, the Chamber outlined that sedition as an offence impinges on an individual’s right to criticize and has no place in a well-functioning democracy.
The Chamber reemphasized its support for the rule of law in society and continues to remain supportive of the equal application of the rule of law, especially as it relates to matters of good governance.

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