$205M Magistrate’s Court commissioned at Mahaicony

– Guyana’s legal infrastructure has evolved over the years – Nandlall

A spanking new $205 million Magistrate’s Court was on Monday commissioned at Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD) to enhance access to justice for residents in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

The modern edifice represents a significant milestone for Mahaicony, offering the community its first dedicated courthouse. Prior to this, judicial proceedings were conducted within the Guyana Police Force (GPF) building.
The building was constructed by BM Property Investment, Inc, with consulting services provided by VICAV Diana Limited. Works on the court commenced on November 21, 2022.
Previously, residents had to travel to Vigilance on the East Coast for most court services, including filing cases for domestic violence, maintenance, liquor licences, and more. With the new court in Mahaicony, these services are now much closer to home, eliminating the long and often costly journeys.
During the commissioning ceremony Chancellor of the Judiciary, Yonette Cummings-Edwards, spoke about the challenges faced by the previous court office, which was housed in an outdated building owned by the GPF.
“We operated for a number of years in that building. Not only was the building old and not only was the building not owned by us, the building was owned by the Guyana Police Force but we occupied a second flat as you were told. And more than ever, we were taking up space that the police force really needed for themselves.” She shared
She continued, “At one time I thought we were trespassers, but the Guyana Police Force remained very patient and waited on us. And when they themselves wanted to expand, we were in their way. So having a new courthouse with modern facilities means a lot to us as members of the judiciary, to the Guyana Police Force, as well as the residents in this community.”
She also stated that this new court will significantly cut costs for the public who needs to handle their legal matter bringing great relief to them.
“So you can see why we’re happy and jolly and excited. This is the season, and indeed, this is one of the reasons. It will cut costs for members of the public. It will also cut time spent in travelling for these various services which I listed here because the sub-registry will be right here providing services.”
Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony was Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall who emphasised that the development of the country’s legal infrastructure is a direct result of revenues collected from oil funds.
“Those who are refusing to see will ask the question, ‘Where is the oil money going?’” Nandlall said. “And we have to have these conversations, because those narratives, once left unchecked, can become accepted truths.”
Nandlall noted that the frequent commissioning of new Magistrate’s Courts across the country, including the one in Mahaicony, has become so common that the significance of these advancements is often overlooked.
He also pointed out that a simple thing like a generator was once unheard of in the magisterial court system while adding that today, these courts are equipped with every piece of equipment necessary to ensure smooth operations.
“The progress we are witnessing should not be taken for granted, as it represents a profound shift in how we approach justice and public service in Guyana.”
“Twenty years ago, commissioning a facility like this would have been a monumental event. Today, it’s almost routine,” the AG stated while underscoring the importance of recognising the historical significance of these developments. On this note, he stated that Guyana’s legal infrastructure has evolved.
Nandlall further highlighted the impressive quality of the new courts, asserting that the country is now surpassing its regional counterparts in terms of infrastructure and modernity.
“When I look at the type of facilities we are building, I can say with full confidence that Guyana’s courts are ahead of many,” he stated.
“All our courts are now air-conditioned, with modern amenities that ensure comfort and efficiency for both the judiciary and the public.”
He continued by noting that many of these new facilities also include residential quarters for Magistrates and staff, ensuring that they have a conducive work-life balance.
“These courts are not just places of justice—they provide comprehensive support for the community, with dedicated spaces for victims of domestic violence, sexual violence, and children,” Nandlall said. “Additionally, there are proper facilities for legal counsel to meet and confer with their clients, which were not available in the past.”