The Ethnic Relations Com-mission (ERC) has criticized the action involving a police officer during a church service in the hinterland which has ignited a heated debate over the balance between freedom of worship and noise nuisances.
A video circulating online shows a police officer escorting a church musician from the premises to the police station, reportedly in response to complaints regarding loud music from the church.
The ERC expressed deep concern about the incident stating, “The ERC vehemently condemns any action that infringes upon the freedom of worship.” The commission acknowledged on September 24th, the Guyana Police Force’s duty to address reported complaints but criticized the manner in which the situation was handled, suggesting that it could have been resolved in a way that was “less disruptive to the church service.” The commission further emphasized its commitment to “encourage and create respect for religious, cultural and other forms of diversity in a plural society,” and announced plans for a thorough investigation into the matter.
In a statement published on September 21st, the Guyana Police Force clarified that the officer did not disrupt the service or arrest any members of the congregation. “The pastor was not invited to the police station but chose to accompany Morgow [the church’s musician mentioned above], who was subsequently given a warning and sent away,” the police said.
Sheldon Baharally, a local resident, had filed multiple complaints about the church’s noise levels, which he alleged occur several times a week.
Baharally, in a letter to the editor published on September 25th, stated that the issue was not about religious practices but rather the negative impact of excessive noise on his family’s quality of life. He wrote, “I have nothing against religious worship,” but expressed that the noise has significantly affected his family, particularly his son’s education and health. “The loud music continues four to five times a week, from 6:30 pm to 10 pm, sometimes 11 pm,” he wrote. “For the first time in his life, my son’s academics have severely declined due to this disturbance.”
The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Barima-Waini has also weighed in on the controversy, affirming the importance of protecting the right to worship while calling for mutual respect among community members. In a statement, the RDC declared, “We strongly condemn any disruption or detention of church members solely on allegations of noise nuisance.” It called for a thorough and impartial investigation by the police and stressed that “every citizen is entitled to peace and tranquility.”
The RDC further urged churches to follow proper procedures when establishing places of worship, including consulting with relevant authorities such as the Regional Democratic Council and engaging with the community to promote harmony and mutual understanding. “Throughout Region One, various denominations incorporate public address systems into their worship services, and these practices are generally respected,” the RDC statement said. However, it also highlighted the need for coexistence and respect for the rights of all residents.
