Mixed reactions to midnight curfew

Apr 30, 2025 News

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…even as govt mulls moving it 10PM

Kaieteur News-There have been mixed reactions to the five-hour-long curfew imposed by the government, which starts from midnight daily as part of its efforts to restore public order following Monday night’s fiery riots across the country.

to restore public order following Monday night’s fiery riots across the country.

The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, on Tuesday imposed a nationwide curfew from 12:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. in response to violent protests and widespread looting that erupted across the country following the release of an autopsy report confirming that 11-year-old Adriana Younge died by drowning.

The ministry said the Public (Safety) Order 2025 is being enforced to maintain law and order. “In the interest of good order and public safety, in every administrative Region of Guyana, there shall be no public meetings, gatherings and assemblies of persons, processions or marches in any public place during the hours of 12:30 a.m. to 05:00 a.m.” The curfew prohibits, during the period, any form of public assembly.

Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn, speaking to Kaieteur News, confirmed that authorities are reviewing the current curfew and are considering moving the start time to 10:00 p.m. “They [relevant authorities] are considering it, we are reviewing it,” Minister Benn said. He continued, “Basically, it means everybody, including you (reporter), should go home by 10:00.”

Meanwhile, contacted for a comment on the curfew, Leader of the Opposition Aubrey Norton criticised the government and police for “mishandling” Younge’s situation, which led to the uproar the country is currently in. “First, this entire scene was created by the incompetence of the Guyana Police Force and the government. Had they acted properly, we would have not arrived at where we arrived.”

He continued, “Why would you want a curfew from 12:30 to 5:30 in the morning, when most people are at home? There’s something sinister about it.” Norton also warned of the risks of extrajudicial violence and said the solution lies in restoring public trust in law enforcement, not implementing a curfew.

David Patterson, Chairman of the Alliance For Change (AFC), called for calm but urged the government to keep the curfew short-term. “I think it is a limited curfew, and obviously we have to give some sort of support to the police, but I do think it should be, and I hope it’s a very limited curfew; it doesn’t go on for any longer if it’s necessary.”

Some citizens also had mixed views on the curfew. Roy McKenzie, a citizen interviewed by Kaieteur News, expressed sympathy, but noted that imposing a curfew at this time is a drastic measure. “It’s a strong measure and maybe it is necessary to restore calm, however, it puts a lot of pressure on residents who need to work, buy food, or care for their families.” He added, “I just hope the authorities can find a balance between keeping the community safe and respecting our daily needs.”

Nicholas, another citizen, said the curfew might help reduce crime, but added, “It would have been more effective had it been in place at an earlier time.” A resident identified only as ‘Darky’ dismissed the curfew entirely, by stating, “The curfew ain’t make sense, girl. You ain’t see is before 12 them people start loot and bun up de road, and vehicles and protest.”

Kathy Smith, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and also owner of Dynotech Construction Chemicals Inc., called for the upholding of law and order while expressing sympathy for Younge’s family. She said, “The GCCI is disheartened by the tragic loss of such a young and promising life. We intended to express that at our planned vigil, which had to be postponed to a later date.” “I think while the nation mourns with the family, this tragedy has been hijacked by criminal elements of society who have taken the opportunity to loot, burn, and act violently. We have received reports and observed many businesses that are vital to communities had to close their doors,” Smith added.

Further, businesswoman Monica Thompson said the curfew will hurt farmers and vendors who operate in early morning hours. She told Kaieteur News, “The curfew, I don’t think it is called for the curfew, that is totally wrong, because at Parika, where the business areas are, the farmers are coming in night to get the market like 04:00 to 02:00 people does start going up by the stelling to buy loads, it’s going to affect business.” A vendor known as ‘Raj’ said that such a curfew would make it difficult for him to prepare for his day’s work. “Goods start pack out early. People come and buy early. It is gonna take a toll on we.”

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• Adriana Younge, curfew, fiery riot, protest, Robeson Benn

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