“Security and justice must be equitable every day” – Pres Ali announces sweeping reforms

In an almost two-and-a-half-hour national address delivered at the Arthur Chung Conference Center on Wednesday, President Ali unveiled a wide-ranging plan to reform Guyana’s security and justice systems, placing equity, accountability, and citizen trust at the forefront of Government priorities.
Central to the reforms is the modernisation and expansion of Guyana’s defence and police forces. President Ali announced significant acquisitions, including offshore patrol vessels and helicopters, aimed at enhancing national defence capabilities on land, sea, and air. These purchases will complement the Government’s ongoing efforts to improve emergency response, border security, and the fight against crime.
He also highlighted the modernisation of policing through technology-enabled solutions. Initiatives such as e-ticketing, digital case management, and the establishment of a cybercrime unit are designed to improve efficiency, prevent crime proactively, and respond to incidents faster. Complementing these technological upgrades, the Government will intensify community policing efforts to build public trust, foster cooperation between law enforcement and citizens, and ensure that policing remains citizen-friendly and community-orientated.
According to the Guyanese leader, a fair and effective security system is essential for national stability. “Security and justice must not be for the wealthy, or for those who can pay for it, or those who think they can determine it by what they possess,” he declared. “Security and justice must be equitable every day of the week. It must be predictable every day of the week. It must be accessible every day of the week. And it must comprise one standard for every citizen. That is the hallmark of a judicial system and a security system that works for every citizen equally.”
With this in mind, he noted reform efforts extend beyond law enforcement to the broader justice system, underscoring plans to revamp the prison service, emphasising correction and rehabilitation over punitive measures. The Government also aims to ensure that justice is predictable, fair, accessible, and equitable for all citizens, eliminating disparities that often favour the privileged.
“These measures are grounded in the belief that justice should be more than a set of principles; it must be a lived reality for every citizen,” the President said.

Crime, narcotics, smuggling
The President detailed steps to combat illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking and smuggling. Guyana will continue to strengthen regional partnerships and participate actively in alliances to combat organised crime. Investments in intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital resilience will help detect threats early, protecting national data, critical infrastructure, and citizens’ safety.
Further, he reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to a controlled and strategic migration policy, welcoming skills, investment, and contribution while safeguarding the rights and interests of Guyanese citizens. Local businesses, talent, and community ownership will remain central to Guyana’s development strategy.
“Everyone in Guyana must be documented, accounted for, and here for a clear purpose and defined period,” he emphasised. This will be facilitated through modern digital systems such as the EID card, ensuring transparency and accountability in all Government operations.
The address also highlighted the role of technology in strengthening both security and governance. The Government has already implemented digital transaction systems that have reduced weeks-long processes to mere seconds, demonstrating efficiency and transparency. Further investments in AI, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure are aimed at making Guyana resilient against modern threats, from cyberattacks to real-world criminal activity.