The judiciary in Region Two received a major boost today with the commissioning of the new Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court and living quarters, a project valued at GY$178.2 million.
The state-of-the-art facility includes a courtroom, magistrate’s chambers, living accommodations for a magistrate and court clerk, washroom facilities, and a designated parking area.
The court was constructed by Satar Mohamed and Son Construction and Hardware Supplies, with engineering consultancy from Kalitech Inc.’s Kalyan Tiwari. It forms part of the government’s broader plan to modernise judicial infrastructure across Guyana. The region will now benefit from two resident judges.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, Chancellor of the Judiciary Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, Chief Justice Roxane George, and Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva attended the commissioning ceremony.
Nandlall, in his address, said the government is committed to ensuring that all citizens — regardless of location — have access to justice.
He noted that what residents are witnessing is part and parcel of what is taking place across the country, highlighting the importance of justice in society.
“Access to justice is as important as any other right or entitlement of a human being,” he said, noting that all newly constructed courts are being built to modern standards.
“The construction of this new edifice is a vital component of the government’s broader plan to expand physical infrastructure across all sectors,” he underscored.
Nandlall also noted progress in the judiciary’s digital transformation, including e-filing, remote hearings, and digitised case management systems.
“The Anna Regina Courthouse joins the long list of courthouses commissioned under the People’s Progressive Party,” he said, referencing the containerised courts introduced after the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure timely prisoner hearings.
Other developments include the appointment of 10 High Court judges, three commissioners of title, and nine magistrates from 2020 to 2025 as part of the broader judicial reform programme.
The event included cultural performances, such as poetry by primary and secondary school students, a piece by Her Worship Judy Latchman, and a musical performance by saxophonist Roy Stewart.
Magistrate Tamieka Clarke, who serves the Essequibo magistracy, said “The courtroom stands as a beacon of trust. It’s the first point of contact between the public and the justice system.”
Region Two Chairman, Velma De Silva and Anna Regina Mayor Devin Mohan described the court’s commissioning as a milestone for the region and a boost for the town of Anna Regina.
Chief Justice Roxane George recalled that previously, court matters were heard in a dilapidated section of the police station and noted that construction of the new court began following a sod-turning ceremony in October 2023.
Chancellor Cummings-Edwards said the new facility is part of the judiciary’s effort to bring justice closer to the people. “The building exists to enforce the rule of law,” she said.
She reminded attendees that the judiciary had promised a new court for the region two years ago.
“The previous court operated out of part of the Anna Regina Police Station, and there was never a designated space for courtroom matters,” she said.
“Essequibo deserves equally what the rest of the country enjoys,” she added, thanking the police for their past support.
A scene at the court opening today
