Businessman Randy Jagdeo was released on $350,000 bail Thursday after pleading not guilty to a charge of inciting persons to commit treason, following a controversial social media post and provocative signage at his retail store.
Jagdeo, 39, of Alexander Village, appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess at the Diamond/Golden Grove Magistrate’s Court, where he faced allegations under Section 314 of the Criminal Law Offences Act, Chapter 8:01. The charge stems from a Facebook comment in which he declared “Essequibo belongs to Venezuelaâ€â€”a statement that ignited public outrage due to the ongoing border dispute between Guyana and Venezuela and the region’s international recognition as part of Guyana.
The controversy deepened after it was revealed that Jagdeo’s business, the Thousand Dollar Store on the East Bank of Demerara, displayed signage featuring the official ‘One Guyana’ logo alongside a map that excluded the Essequibo region. Authorities considered both the online statement and the signage to have potentially seditious implications, especially given the sensitivity surrounding the Essequibo issue.
During the hearing, the prosecution strongly objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the charge and its implications for national security. However, Magistrate Bess granted bail with strict conditions: Jagdeo must report to the head of the Police Cyber Crimes Unit at Eve Leary on the third Friday of every month, refrain from all social media activity, and surrender his passport to the court. The matter was adjourned until June 16.
The Guyana Government has recently intensified efforts to clamp down on individuals expressing support for Venezuela’s claims to Essequibo, amid heightened tensions and acts of provocation from the neighboring country.
Jagdeo is no stranger to the legal system, having previously faced—but ultimately been acquitted of—a murder charge after key prosecution witnesses failed to testify.
As the case unfolds, it continues to spark debate on the boundaries of free speech, national security, and the role of social media in Guyana’s charged political climate.
