President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has directed the Attorney General’s Chambers, headed by Attorney General Mohabir Anil Nandlall, S.C., to examine existing laws and penalties relating to the creation and dissemination of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content, following concerns that misinformation surrounding the MV Barima tragedy has negatively affected the livelihoods of fisherfolk.
The directive came after a fisher raised concerns that sales of fish had declined significantly in the wake of false AI-generated videos and manipulated images circulating on social media after the July 18 MV Barima tragedy.
According to the President, the spread of fabricated content has contributed to public fear and confusion, leading many consumers to avoid purchasing fish.
He said the impact of such misinformation extends beyond online platforms and can have serious economic and social consequences.
“This type of misinformation can cause severe harm on communities of society,” President Ali said, while instructing Attorney General Nandlall, “I’m asking you to look at that.”
The President made the announcement on Thursday during the Model Village Initiative consultation at the Mon Repos Primary School, where he was listening to concerns raised by residents about issues affecting their livelihoods.
In addition to reviewing legal measures, President Ali announced that the government will launch a public education campaign aimed at helping citizens identify AI-generated and manipulated content while raising awareness of the damage such misinformation can cause.
