Walrond denounces misleading social media claims on E-ID cards

– says claim that Govt’s monitoring of foreign nationals “legitimises illegal migrants” false

Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond has denounced statements circulating on social media regarding the issuance of the new Electronic Identification (E-ID) Cards as “false and misleading”.
“I categorically reject the false and misleading statements circulating on social media regarding the issuance of the new Electronic Identification (E-ID) cards. These claims are misinformed, irresponsible, and clearly intended to create public confusion about a legitimate national security initiative,” she noted in a statement.
According to Walrond, the E-ID card will be issued to both citizens and non-citizens. There will be an E-ID Citizen card for Guyanese nationals and an E-ID Resident card for migrants who meet the required legal criteria – such as those holding valid work permits.
The E-ID Resident card is designed to ensure compliance with national regulations, including those of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), while also providing secure access to Government and private sector services.
E-ID Resident cards issued to non-citizens will remain valid only for the period of their approved legal stay, after which they automatically become invalid.
Attempts to portray the Government’s monitoring of foreign nationals as an effort to “legitimise illegal migrants” are entirely false. These statements are malicious, mischievous, and intended to sow public discord – tactics that serve the narrow interests of those who peddle misinformation, she charged.
As Government remains committed to modernising public services, protecting its borders, ensuring the safety of its citizens and enhancing national security through the responsible use of technology, she urged all citizens to rely only on verified, official information and to reject divisive narratives that undermine national unity.