The media plays a pivotal role in keeping the public informed. While journalists are entitled to access information, they are urged to maintain high ethical standards when reporting on judicial proceedings. Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, emphasized this point during the opening of a one-day press engagement hosted by the Supreme Court of the Judicature in collaboration with the Guyana Press Association (GPA).
“You must not take your role lightly,” Justice Cummings-Edwards said. “Members of the media cannot and must not hide their light under a bushel. You must always keep your good qualities and abilities at the forefront. Do not keep them a secret or hide them from others.”
The engagement was designed to bridge the gap between media practices and judicial principles by examining the dynamic interplay between the media and the judiciary. It also aimed to address the challenges faced by journalists and to improve the justice system in the country.
Justice Cummings-Edwards noted that the media’s relationship with the state and society has “unique” consequences for every aspect of society, including the law. As such, she emphasized that balanced reporting is fundamental, as it can impact public perception.
“The court is not above the law,” she said. “The media have the right to access information related to court proceedings, except where the law imposes restrictions on certain matters. Your rights extend beyond national boundaries. You have the right to press for interviews, conduct interviews, and report on court proceedings.”
However, she pointed out that the media’s right to report on judicial proceedings stems from the necessity of transparency and accountability. “We depend on you,” Justice Cummings-Edwards noted. “We can face criticism, but we ask that your criticism be fair and constructive. We practice open justice, and it is there for everyone to see what is happening in court.”
She urged the media to remember the vital role they play in society and to carry out their duties with both courage and responsibility.
GPA President Nazima Ragubir also outlined the constraints faced by journalists, including high turnover rates. She called for greater public access to all court proceedings, except for sensitive family and sexual offense matters, and for digital access to court filing systems and records. “We believe these measures would greatly help both the media and the public, improving understanding and building trust in the system,” Ragubir said.
Overall, the engagement underscored the essential role of the media in the justice system and the need for ethical and responsible reporting to support transparency and accountability in judicial proceedings.
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