Guyanese Radio Host Kidackie Amsterdam Arrested on Cybercrime Charges

Georgetown, May 27, 2024 – Kidackie Amsterdam, a prominent radio host for ‘Buxtonian Morning Time’ and a member of the Working People’s Alliance, was arrested by the Guyana Police Force under allegations of cybercrime, including incitement to murder against high-ranking government officials.

The arrest, which took place amid an ongoing civil dispute with businessman Mohamed Qualender, has sparked significant controversy and debates about racial profiling and unequal treatment under the law. Opposition parliamentarian Hon. Annette Ferguson has pointed out the marked difference in handling Amsterdam’s case compared to other high-profile cases, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in the enforcement of justice.

Amsterdam is accused of using a computer system to broadcast content that allegedly encouraged violence against the Head of State and other members of the government, as specified under Section 18(1)(c) of the Cybercrime Act No 16 of 2018. Additionally, he faces charges under Section 19(3)(a) for allegedly disseminating false information.

The arrest has raised concerns about freedom of speech and ethnic discrimination, with critics arguing that the treatment of Amsterdam, described by police as a “male negro,” contrasts sharply with other cases involving different ethnic groups and less severe allegations. “What an unjust society we are living in, under a PPPc regime,” opposition parliamentarian Hon Annette Ferguson stated, referring to the lack of handcuffs in similar cases.

As the community reacts and debates intensify, the Guyana Police Force continues its investigation, asserting that the legal actions taken are justified by the severity of the alleged crimes. Meanwhile, supporters of Amsterdam call for fairness and transparency in the handling of his case, fearing that the charges might be politically motivated.