Progress Demands Inclusion and Fairness

Oct 24, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor,

The Government of Guyana’s decision to digitise its advertising framework—announced recently by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo—is a commendable move toward modernisation. Transitioning to a dedicated online procurement platform and leveraging digital news outlets demonstrates foresight.

It aligns government communication with global trends, reduces costs, and enhances efficiency. As more citizens consume news and information online, this approach will undoubtedly improve reach and audience targeting. Yet, in embracing digital transformation, inclusivity must remain a guiding principle.

The Vice President’s comments suggesting that established print media houses such as Kaieteur News and Stabroek News could be “left behind” if they fail to adapt have sparked public concern. These newspapers have historically carried the majority of government advertisements, supported national messaging efforts, and commanded significant readership across diverse demographics.

Their potential exclusion—intentional or circumstantial—raises valid questions about fairness and equitable access within the evolving media landscape. Moreover, the changing role of the state media—such as the Guyana Chronicle and the Department of Public Information (DPI)—merits clarification.

As the advertising paradigm shifts, it is critical to define how these publicly funded entities will serve in the new digital ecosystem without diminishing the plurality and independence that a healthy democracy requires.

To ensure transparency and fairness, the government could consider implementing a structured bidding or accreditation system. This would allow all pre—qualified media—digital and print—to compete equitably for advertising opportunities based on measurable criteria such as audience reach, platform engagement, and demonstrated impact.

Such a mechanism would foster competition, encourage modernisation across the industry, and help traditional media evolve for digital relevance. By guaranteeing access, rather than exclusion, the government will signal its commitment not only to efficiency but also to impartiality and democratic diversity.

Digital transformation should unite, not divide. Openness in process and inclusivity in participation will ultimately strengthen public trust, reinforce good governance, and enrich Guyana’s media landscape for years to come.

Sincerely,
Hemdutt Kumar

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