Importance of accurate reporting on oil & gas in Guyana

Dear Editor,
I write with deep concern regarding the sensational and misleading headline of an article published in Kaieteur News on December 6, 2024; to wit: “Showing how oil money being spent would be difficult.”
This headline grossly distorts Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s remarks, and fails to reflect the actual message he conveyed, as is accurately captured in other sections of the media under the title “Itemizing use of oil money in budget difficult, but our spending is transparent – Jagdeo.”
In his statements, Mr. Jagdeo clearly emphasized that while itemizing every detail of oil revenue utilization in a budget can be logistically challenging due to the nature of consolidated budgeting, the Government’s spending remains transparent and accountable.
Misrepresenting such critical nuances risks undermining public trust in Government institutions, and fuels unnecessary confusion in regard to the use of oil revenues — an issue that is of paramount importance to Guyana’s future.
The oil and gas sector represents a transformative opportunity for our nation, but only if managed with transparency, effective governance, and public confidence. When media outlets sensationalize or distort public statements, they do a disservice not only to their readers, but also to the broader discourse on this vital sector. Responsible journalism is key to ensuring the public remains informed and empowered to engage constructively with decisions regarding how this newfound wealth is managed.
Editor, the result of Kaieteur News’ misinformation was, not unexpectedly, the PNCR and AFC scrambling to employ the misinformation to score political points and attack the PPP/C government.
I urge all media entities to exercise caution and integrity when reporting on sensitive matters such as oil and gas. Misinformation or sensationalism in this space risks fuelling distrust, politicization, and division at a time when national unity and informed dialogue are essential.
Let us not squander this historic moment with reckless narratives, but instead work collectively — Government, media, and citizens alike — to ensure that Guyana’s oil wealth benefits all Guyanese.

Sincerely,
Anson A Paul