Guyana’s Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has issued a formal rebuttal against corruption allegations made by opposition leader Azruddin Mohamed, who suggested the minister’s substantial residential property was funded through illicit means. The political confrontation emerged publicly on December 24, 2025, highlighting ongoing tensions between government and opposition figures.
Minister Mustapha categorically denied the accusations through an official statement, explaining that his Bloomfield, Berbice residence was financed exclusively through legitimate banking arrangements and personal savings. “I hereby declare that the construction of the said house was funded and financed exclusively through a mortgage obtained from Demerara Bank Limited and personal savings accumulated through lawful employment,” the minister asserted. He further emphasized his compliance with transparency protocols, confirming he remains current with all declarations to Guyana’s Integrity Commission.
The allegations originated from Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, who questioned how a government minister earning less than GY$1.2 million monthly could afford custom architectural features and luxury finishes. Mohamed contrasted the property’s current state with its condition four years prior, describing it previously as a “simple, wooden structure” comparable to neighboring homes. He additionally highlighted infrastructure disparities, noting the street containing the minister’s residence appeared uniquely developed compared to surrounding underdeveloped roads.
Minister Mustapha defended his 35-year political career, referencing his service as parliamentarian, Regional Chairman for Region 6, and minister since 2020 as evidence of his commitment to ethical public service. The minister also addressed allegations concerning his son Javed Mustapha, characterizing Mohamed’s criticisms as a “personal vendetta” stemming from the younger Mustapha’s dissociation from the opposition leader due to alleged unethical conduct.
While declaring reluctance to engage in “tit-for-tat” exchanges, Minister Mustapha revealed he has engaged legal counsel to explore defamation proceedings against Mohamed. The minister characterized the opposition leader’s statements as “completely untrue, fallacious, and devoid of merit,” alleging they were designed to damage his reputation and political standing.
Mohamed’s criticisms extended beyond individual allegations to systemic concerns, suggesting the People’s Progressive Party Civic administration enables public officials to “rapidly accumulate immense wealth through corrupt means.” The opposition leader called attention to international observers, particularly urging US, British, and Canadian authorities to monitor what he characterized as exploitation of public office for personal enrichment.
The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of Mohamed’s own legal challenges, including an ongoing extradition request from United States authorities addressing wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering charges in Florida federal court.