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Georgetown, Guyana — The National Assembly on November 25 debated the Deceased Person’s Estates Administration (Amendment) Bill 2024, which seeks to expand access to funds of deceased persons for their beneficiaries. Attorney General Anil Nandlall presented the bill as a pragmatic measure to ease financial strain on bereaved families, especially among vulnerable groups. Opposition MPs Khemraj Ramjattan, Volda Lawrence, and Annette Ferguson supported the bill but raised concerns about implementation, oversight, and public awareness.
Attorney General: Expanding Access to Ease Burdens
AG Nandlall outlined the bill’s intent to address limitations in current legislation. While a 2022 amendment allowed for up to $750,000 to be withdrawn from a deceased’s bank accounts without letters of administration or probate, the new bill extends this to other sources, including credit unions, co-op societies, employers, creditors, and the National Insurance Scheme.
“This amendment will particularly benefit the poorer sections of our population,” Nandlall emphasized, describing the move as a response to widespread public demand and consultations with stakeholders like the Bar Association and Law Reform Commission.
Volda Lawrence: “Timely but Safeguards Are Essential”
MP Volda Lawrence supported the bill, calling it a “step in the right direction” for reducing the financial and procedural burdens on grieving families. She highlighted the high costs of funerals and medical expenses, noting the bill’s potential to mitigate family conflicts over accessing funds.
However, Lawrence cautioned against potential misuse by institutional representatives. “We must ensure that persons in these institutions do not misinterpret this law to make themselves gods,” she said, stressing the importance of clear guidelines and robust enforcement mechanisms.
Khemraj Ramjattan: “Support with Recognition of Oversight”
Khemraj Ramjattan echoed Lawrence’s sentiments, commending the bill as a practical intervention to address societal gaps. He acknowledged the Attorney General’s “commendable effort” in recognizing the shortcomings of the 2022 amendment but emphasized the importance of vigilant oversight to ensure the amendment’s intended benefits reach those in need.
Annette Ferguson: “Public Awareness Is Key”
MP Annette Ferguson voiced her support for the bill but raised concerns about its reach among Guyana’s Indigenous and rural populations. “How will our brothers and sisters in the hinterland become aware of this amendment?” Ferguson questioned, calling for an aggressive public education campaign to ensure equitable access to the benefits of the legislation.
She also sought clarity on whether the amendment covered financial instruments like shares, an issue addressed later by Nandlall, who confirmed that shares fall outside the bill’s scope but could be addressed through innovative measures by companies.
Unanimous Support Amid Calls for Education and Oversight
While both sides of the House expressed unanimous support, opposition MPs stressed the need for careful implementation and robust public education. Nandlall assured Parliament of the government’s commitment to publicizing the legislation and encouraged MPs to champion the bill’s benefits in their constituencies. “This bill is a direct response to the needs of the people. Let us all take this back to our communities and raise awareness,” Nandlall urged.
The Deceased Person’s Estates Administration (Amendment) Bill 2024 was passed without amendments, marking a significant step in simplifying access to funds for grieving families. As implementation unfolds, ensuring public awareness and preventing institutional misuse will remain key to the bill’s success.
