Distinction Between Peaceful Protest, Procession, and Use of Amplification in Guyana

According to Kaieteur News, an article published on November 3, 2026, there is a difference between conducting a stationary picketing exercise, participating in a march, and using loud sound equipment during a protest. The publication addressed the belief held by some that the Constitution grants immunity from laws during protests.

Under Article 147(1) of the Constitution, the right to assemble and demonstrate peacefully is protected, and this right is fundamental and does not depend on government approval or the message of the protest.

However, the Public Order Act, Chapter 16:03, distinguishes between a stationary protest and a public procession. Section 2 defines a public procession as a march or procession in a public place. Section 5(1) stipulates that no individual may participate in any public procession, except for a funeral procession, without first obtaining written authorization from the Chief Officer of Police. Section 5(2) further requires a written application for the proposed procession at least 48 hours in advance. If permission is granted, the Chief Officer determines the route, the times for the procession, and any specific orders related to it.

Kaieteur News noted that the law requires written permission for a public procession, and an impromptu decision to change a stationary demonstration into a march does not negate this legal requirement. Furthermore, Section 12(1) of the Public Order Act states that any person who holds, organizes, speaks at, or takes part in a public meeting or public procession where a noisy instrument is used without the Chief Officer of Police's permission is guilty of an offense, subject to any regulations under the Act.

Section 2 defines a noisy instrument to include loudspeakers, amplifiers, and juke boxes, and a bullhorn is considered a noisy instrument. Therefore, the publication stated that one cannot assume their constitutional right to protest automatically permits the use of a bullhorn, a microphone connected to an amplifier, or a loudspeaker system at a picketing exercise; permission is required when Section 12 applies.

Regarding interactions with law enforcement, Kaieteur News advised that telling a police officer not to touch them is not a recognized legal strategy under the Public Order Act. The Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01, makes it an offense to obstruct, assault, or resist a peace officer acting in the execution of their duty or a person assisting that officer, which carries a potential sentence of imprisonment. The Police Act also makes willful obstruction or resistance of a police officer performing lawful duties an offense.

Kaieteur News concluded that democracy protects the right to protest, but it does not grant a right to disregard the law, and this applies to everyone.