ERC refutes recent public statements suggesting bias

…says Commission committed to balanced, unbiased engagement with
all citizens, communities

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), in a Friday press release, refuted recent public statements, commentary and online discussions which suggested that the Commission was responsible for the arrest or incarceration of local artiste Baby Skello.
According to the ERC, the assertion is incorrect, and it noted that the ERC’s role, as outlined in Article 212D of the Constitution of Guyana, is to promote harmony, prevent ethnic division, and resolve conflicts using mediation, conciliation, and other peaceful dispute resolution approaches. Cases may be referred to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) under Article 212D (j) of the Constitution; however, such action is taken only after due review and in accordance with the laws of Guyana, it added. Regarding Baby Skello, whose real name is David Wharton, the ERC pointed out that it had issued two formal written invitations, dated May 14, 2025, and May 23, 2025, respectively, requesting his presence to discuss concerns raised by members of the Hindu community regarding a song widely viewed as offensive and disrespectful to their religious beliefs.
These requests, it stated, “were made as part of our constitutional function to engage, mediate, and encourage constructive resolution.” The ERC stated that Wharton did not respond to these invitations and did not appear before the Commission.
“Because the ERC does not have subpoena powers, the Commission could not compel him to attend. While the ERC has referred several matters to the police based on completed investigations, it did not refer his matter and did not request nor influence any form of arrest or judicial action. Any legal action that followed was undertaken independently by the GPF,” it noted.
Turning to another matter pertaining to Jennifer Ally, the ERC noted that on October 23, 2025, Ally appeared before the Commission when invited, regarding racially insensitive remarks made on social media. During her engagement with the Commission, she fully cooperated and agreed to participate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training sessions and counselling, the ERC statement revealed. “Had Mr Wharton attended when requested, the same approach, centred on education, reconciliation, and corrective support, would have been prioritised, in keeping with the
Commission’s constitutional mandate and determination to resolve matters using first and foremost alternative dispute mechanisms,” the ERC asserted.
“The Commission, in its actions, has consistently demonstrated equitable treatment and fair procedural application, regardless of the individual or the communities involved. The ERC is committed to balanced and unbiased engagement with all citizens and communities. The work of the Commission is grounded, inter alia, in respect for all ethnicities; protection of cultural and religious expression; equal access to mediation and dialogue; and promotion of unity and national togetherness.”
The ERC also refuted public suggestions of bias to any ethnicity, saying that “any suggestion that the Commission is “favouring” one ethnic group or individual is unfounded and contradicts both our record and the constitutional purpose for which the Commission exists.” The ERC continues to encourage constructive dialogue, peaceful conflict resolution, and responsible public expression. The Commission remains open to engaging with any citizen or group to foster improved understanding and strengthen national harmony, the statement concluded.