The Guyana Police Force (GPF) has announced plans to file fresh charges against New York-based activist Rickford Burke, following a major legal setback in which the High Court dismissed the extortion case against him and ruled that the country’s criminal defamation law is unconstitutional.
In its first public response since Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George SC’s ruling on Friday, the police said they remain confident that they have a viable case against Burke and confirmed that extradition proceedings will be pursued under the Fugitive Offenders Act.
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“The matter is under review, and the Police are awaiting further legal advice regarding the institution of fresh charges,” the GPF stated, adding, “Since Mr. Burke remains outside of the jurisdiction of Guyana, extradition proceedings will be pursued in keeping with the Chief Justice’s ruling.”
Chief Justice George’s decision dealt a significant blow to the state’s case, declaring that the criminal defamation law is unconstitutional and violates free speech protections enshrined in Guyana’s constitution. She also heavily criticized the state’s attempt to serve court summonses on Burke in New York, describing the effort as a “frolic” at the likely expense of taxpayers.
In her oral ruling during the judicial review application, Justice George systematically dismantled the charges filed against Burke, a long-time political commentator and human rights advocate who has resided in the United States for more than 27 years.
Her decision effectively nullified all pending charges related to the extortion case and the now-defunct defamation statute, marking a decisive legal victory for Burke and setting a constitutional precedent.
Despite the ruling, the GPF remains undeterred, signaling its intention to continue pursuing the activist through new charges and international legal channels.
Burke, a vocal critic of the Guyana government, has been the subject of intense public debate over his activism and political commentary, which frequently challenge official policies and leadership decisions.
The dismissal of the charges underscores growing scrutiny over the use of criminal laws in political disputes, particularly in cases where freedom of expression and constitutional rights are at stake.
As the police prepare to mount a renewed legal effort, the case continues to raise important questions about the balance between state authority, individual rights, and the limits of prosecuting political activists abroad.
