President Ali Warns AI Could Become a “Ticking Time Bomb” Without Regional Oversight
By Tiana Cole |HGP Nightly News.
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — President Irfaan Ali has issued a stark warning on the potential dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) if left unregulated, calling for a clearly defined national and regional framework to govern the technology’s integration across all spheres of public life.
Speaking at a regional policy forum, President Ali announced that within the next 12 months, Guyana will develop a comprehensive framework for AI and digitization, while working with fellow CARICOM member states to pursue a unified strategy.
“We don’t have the capacity individually to manage this technological shift. That’s why I am positioning this morning that we pursue a common path for CARICOM,” the President emphasized.
He warned that without proper oversight, AI could become a “ticking time bomb”, especially in the absence of clear legislation, ethical guidelines, and media regulation.
“AI has the power to disseminate misinformation at a pace that can destabilize societies instantly. We must regulate how it’s used in the media and ensure it does not go unchecked,” Ali cautioned.
The President acknowledged that Guyana’s existing constitution does not address AI or digital technologies, and stressed that the upcoming constitutional reform process must include specific provisions for AI governance, cybersecurity, and data ethics.
Ali urged the region to adopt a forward-looking approach that maximizes the benefits of AI while carefully navigating the risks, ethical dilemmas, and social consequences associated with its use.
“This is not only about technology—it’s about protecting democracy, human rights, and national stability in the digital age,” he said.
With AI advancing rapidly across sectors including healthcare, education, finance, and media, the President’s remarks signal a major policy shift toward proactive digital governance in Guyana and the wider Caribbean.
