President Ali calls for structural reforms to tackle crime, citing substance abuse and mental health

President Irfaan Ali has identified substance abuse and mental health challenges as major drivers of repeat offending, calling for a deeper, structural approach to reforming both Guyana’s education and prison systems.

Speaking at the opening of the Guyana Prison Service Annual Correctional Officers Conference, the president said tackling crime requires more than improved infrastructure and technology. Instead, he stressed the need to address the underlying social and psychological issues that often push individuals into conflict with the law.

“Substance abuse and mental health” are among the most critical factors affecting both first-time and repeat offenders, Ali said, noting that these issues frequently go unaddressed until individuals enter the criminal justice system.

He argued that prevention must begin within the education system, questioning whether schools have any structured or meaningful approach to dealing with these challenges. Without early intervention, he warned, prisons will continue to face increasing pressure from a growing number of young offenders.

The president also raised concerns about the normalisation of risky behaviours, including vaping, which he said is increasingly linked to mental health issues.

Beyond this, Ali pointed to broader social concerns, including the declining role and confidence of men across the Caribbean. He said insufficient attention has been given to men’s development and positive influence in society, describing it as a longstanding structural issue in the region.

Ali maintained that meaningful prison reform must go beyond physical upgrades, and instead include sustained investment in mental health services, substance abuse prevention and early social interventions aimed at reducing crime and repeat offending over time.