Launch of Kiskadee Watch stands as monumental triumph for independent journalism in Guyana

Dear Editor,

Congratulations on the launch of the new Kiskadee Watch digital publication! I would have preferred a name that has a more direct Guyana appellation to it. Such a publication was long overdue since the independent Stabroek News shuttered in mid-March. Bringing a new, fresh voice (even if it is only on internet) is a brave initiative and massive achievement given that publications have been rapidly going out of business. In an era where information is the bedrock of democracy and community cohesion, the introduction of this modern, digital-first news platform is a public triumph. I point out that internet news shatters the limits of print schedule, delivering breaking news, investigative journalism, and cultural features at the speed of a click.

It is not easy to run a digital publication in today’s environment given that more and more companies, individuals, and our government and even governments elsewhere prefer to self-promote or self-ad on their own platforms.

In today’s fast-paced media landscape, given the limitation of space in publications, starting a platform that provides opportunities for independent views and comments and writers like me is openly embraced. And given that certain forces are very hostile to independent views, this no small feat. I note that it appears that the publication has followed the editorial policy of the closed SN. And it is led by one of (if not) the best Editors in Chief in the Caribbean. The late David de Caires so described him some twenty years ago.^[1] I traveled to almost every Caribbean island since the late 1980s and regularly read (still do) papers of Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad, Antigua, and more. Anand Persaud’s editorial skill stood out in contrast with the best of others, elevating journalistic standards. He is eloquent, visionary, fearless and uncompromising on professionalism and a media person of impeccable integrity and respect unlike the individual who in a column in another media house regularly attacks him.

The publication is also commended for having credible op ed writers and commentators, not those who from another media, in a rage of jealously, unjustifiably denigrate and attack editors and writers of integrity and who command respect. I also note that the publication offers an inclusive space for commentary, inviting a mosaic of voices to debate the future direction of the country.

Long before and at the time of the closure of SN, I approached many media people (I will protect their names) connected to SN and other publications (some currently on payroll of media houses) as well as business and politicians on starting an internet publication that can be subsequently printed (weekly) if successful; the outstanding journalist Annan Boodram and I teamed up and approached several media folks to get one going and even worked out a potential budget. There was much enthusiasm among media folks. The politicians were not interested in another publication and business people expressed fear. There was strong interest in a new publication from ex-SN personnel and from other publications, but there was serious concern about funding and meeting payroll over an extended period if support was not forthcoming. People didn’t want to commit to a publication without guaranteed funding. Annan and I put it on hold and agreed to revisit the idea. I am pleased to learn that several individuals have come forward to fund Kiskadee Watch. It is modeled somewhat like the respected UK Guardian that I read regularly^[2] and depends on financial support of readers like me. The presence of a dedicated, professional digital newsroom acts as a vital anchor for truth. Funding is critical and I encourage the public to donate to a paper that holds officials accountable like is seen in USA despite repeated efforts to stop exposure of poor governance.

The launch of Kiskadee Watch stands as a monumental triumph for independent journalism in Guyana, made possible only by the remarkable synergy of its founders, editorial leaders, and supporters. I commend the visionaries, the steering committee behind the paper who have mobilized resources ensuring that the country’s democratic media fabric remained unbroken by establishing this innovative, digital-first media platform. Praise is due to Editor-in-Chief Anand Persaud and his team, whose decades of unmatched journalistic integrity and professional excellence have been seamlessly breathed into this new venture. But equally vital are the forward-thinking financiers and diaspora backers who stepped forward to fund this essential public-interest watchdog, cementing its financial independence so it can guard accountability across all sectors of Guyanese society. Together, this collaborative force has given Guyana a bold, watchful voice to hold officials and the public accountable in our rapidly evolving nation.

I offer my sincere congratulations on the launch of Kiskadee Watch. In an era where reliable, engaging journalism is more critical than ever, the arrival of this publication is a welcome addition to the digital landscape. By harnessing the boundary-breaking power of the internet, this new publication is informing Guyanese at home and the sprawling global diaspora to their homeland about affairs in their country, keeping them abreast of affairs important to them and allowing for views and commentaries. It serves as an invaluable bridge for the Guyanese diaspora who have retained retain a fierce love for their homeland, yet they frequently struggle to find comprehensive, reliable updates on local developments. It allows them to join in national conversations as they did with SN.

References

1. David de Caires passes away - Stabroek News — www.stabroeknews.com ↩
2. Editorial code of practice and guidance | About | The Guardian — www.theguardian.com ↩