Press Releases

Georgetown, Guyana – August 15, 2024: The 1^st Sitting of the 9^th Annual Youth Parliament, held today in the Chamber of Public Buildings, Brickdam, Georgetown, saw a significant motion on Drug Trafficking and Gang Violence being passed in favour of the Government.

The session, which was conducted by the Junior Youth Parliamentarians, featured spirited debates centered on the critical issue of drug trafficking and gang violence, a matter of great concern to the youth and the nation as a whole. The motion was moved by Hon. Shantel Smith, M.P., Minister of Home Affairs for the 9^th  Annual Youth Parliament.

The day’s proceedings began with the election of Hon. Aquancy Charles as Speaker of the 9^th Annual Youth Parliament, followed by the administration of the oath to all Members of the House, mirroring the practices of the National Assembly.

Following a brief suspension, the newly elected Speaker welcomed Hon. Warren Kwame McCoy, M.P., Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, who addressed the House, setting the tone for a day of robust and impactful debates.

After intense discussions and deliberations, the motion was carried in favour of the Government side. Upon completion of the call on the Clerk for division, 20 Members voted in favour of the motion, while 19 voted against it, reflecting the closely contested nature of the debate.

Like today’s sitting, the Judicators for the 3^rd Sitting of the 9^th Annual Youth Parliament (junior category), scheduled to continue tomorrow, August 16, 2024, at 9 a.m., will include Hon. Alister Charlie, M.P., Government Member of Parliament and Chief Judge; Hon. Dr. Tandika Smith, M.P., Government Member of Parliament; and Hon. Devin Sears, M.P.,  Opposition Member of Parliament.

The Youth Parliament continues to provide a vital platform for young leaders to engage with pressing national issues, fostering the development of future policymakers and leaders.