标签： Guyana

In a significant legal development, the case against Tacuma Ogunseye, co-leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), has been dismissed by a Magistrate. Ogunseye was charged with inciting racial hostility during a public meeting in March 2023. Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore upheld the no-case submissions presented by Ogunseye’s defense lawyer, Nigel Hughes, stating that there was insufficient evidence to prove that Ogunseye’s remarks were directed at a specific racial group. Hughes emphasized that the content of Ogunseye’s speech was aimed at African Guyanese and discussed their representation in the armed forces, rather than targeting any particular racial group. Additionally, the Magistrate noted that Ogunseye’s comments were made during the Local Government Elections period, a time when politicians are granted some leeway in their statements. The court also considered that Ogunseye had quoted a foreign diplomat’s observation, which could not be interpreted as an intent to incite racial hostility. The decision was met with widespread approval from WPA members and supporters. Ogunseye had previously surrendered to the police in April 2023, pleading not guilty to the charges and was released on bail. His remarks at the WPA meeting in Buxton had sparked significant backlash from the government, private sector, and religious communities, as he called for Afro-Guyanese to defend themselves against racial discrimination and urged an African uprising on June 12.

In a significant move to bolster regional security, Guyana has expressed readiness to acquire advanced French radar systems to monitor Venezuela’s activities. This development follows France’s offer to provide air and sea radar coverage, aimed at enhancing Guyana’s surveillance capabilities. The announcement was made during the opening ceremony of the French Embassy in Guyana, where President Irfaan Ali emphasized the importance of defense cooperation between the two nations. Ali highlighted plans to launch a critical national asset next year, supported by a package of strategic ‘ingredients’ to ensure regional stability. Additionally, Guyana is set to receive a French-made Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) currently under construction, which will complement the existing GDFS Shahoud in safeguarding its Exclusive Economic Zone against illegal activities and incursions. Senator Cédric Perrin, Chair of France’s Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Armed Forces, underscored the necessity of interoperability between French and Guyanese military equipment. He noted France’s unique position as the closest nation with a military base capable of assisting Guyana, offering training and intelligence exchange. The collaboration is expected to be facilitated through France’s Thales Group, a leader in aerospace and defense technology. This partnership comes amid ongoing tensions between Guyana and Venezuela over the disputed Essequibo Region, a matter currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

In a recent press interaction, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo vehemently refuted allegations that his party spent GY$5 billion on its campaign for the September 1 general and regional elections. Labeling the claim as a ‘blatant lie,’ Jagdeo asserted that the PPP’s expenditure was only slightly higher than the GY$300 million reportedly spent by the opposition coalition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). He emphasized, ‘We didn’t spend much more than APNU, so let that be your guide.’ When questioned about the potential advantages of incumbency, Jagdeo countered that such benefits were also utilized by the previous APNU+Alliance For Change administration, including the use of a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) helicopter by then-President David Granger. Jagdeo also addressed concerns about access to publicly-funded state media, questioning how it could have disadvantaged opponents financially. He highlighted the PPP’s strategic shift to a digital campaign, citing its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional newspaper advertising. ‘We didn’t advertise in the newspapers much. Nobody reads the newspapers, and our digital campaign cost us an unbelievably low sum,’ he stated. Jagdeo further noted that the PPP’s 2025 campaign spending was significantly lower than in 2020, when the party heavily invested in high-priced newspaper ads. The PPP General Secretary criticized the media for not disclosing the source of the GY$5 billion claim, stating, ‘That’s what people do, they hide behind sources. If I was to come here every time and hide behind a source, then we would never find the truth.’ International election observer missions have previously raised concerns about the PPP’s incumbency advantage, but Jagdeo dismissed these as unfounded.

In a definitive statement on Thursday, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo of Guyana reaffirmed that cash grants would continue to be distributed on a per-person basis to citizens aged 18 and older. This announcement came in response to circulating claims that the grants would instead be allocated per household. ‘It’s a blatant lie! We never made any such decision,’ Jagdeo asserted during a press conference. He emphasized the government’s commitment to fulfilling its pre-election promise of disbursing cash grants before Christmas, as pledged by President Irfaan Ali during his campaign in August 2025. Jagdeo, who also serves as General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), reiterated that all commitments related to cash grants would be honored, with multiple grants planned over the next five years. He also dismissed misinterpretations of Minister Vickram Bharrat’s stance on the issue, highlighting the government’s broader focus on education, tax reduction, home ownership, and social welfare programs.

In a decisive move, the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Central Executive Committee (CEC) has reaffirmed its unwavering support for party leader Aubrey Norton, dismissing widespread speculation of internal discord following the coalition’s significant defeat in the September 1 general and regional elections. The CEC, in a late-night statement issued after its first post-election meeting, categorically rejected claims of turmoil within the party, emphasizing that the PNCR remains united and focused on rebuilding its political strength. The committee reiterated its full confidence in Norton’s leadership, stating that he will continue to lead the party until the next congress, scheduled for 2026, where internal elections will take place. The statement also highlighted that any change in leadership must adhere to the party’s constitution and can only occur at a duly convened congress. Additionally, the PNCR addressed the recent resignations of two CEC members, Mervyn Williams and Jermaine Figueira, by confirming the appointment of two new members. While the party did not disclose the names of the replacements, sources suggest that Christopher Jones and Egerton David, who secured the 16th and 17th highest votes in the last internal elections, are likely candidates. However, their official acceptance of the roles remains pending. The PNCR’s firm stance underscores its commitment to stability and resilience as it navigates the aftermath of the electoral setback.

In a stern address to the Guyana Police Force’s executive leadership team and divisional commanders, Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond emphasized the urgent need to eradicate corruption and improve decision-making within the law enforcement agency. The meeting, held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, saw Minister Walrond deliver a forceful message, urging zero tolerance for misconduct and calling for fearless leadership. ‘Corruption must be dealt with firmly. Show zero tolerance. Do not look the other way. Be fearless in confronting it,’ she stated in a Home Affairs Ministry release. This directive follows a recent scandal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, where police officers were caught demanding bribes from a passenger. Despite public outcry, the Guyana Police Force has yet to provide updates on the investigation. Minister Walrond also highlighted the government’s frustration with ineffective leadership, hinting at potential changes to enhance public safety and trust. ‘This is the moment for decisive leadership. The people will not wait, and neither will I,’ she declared. She stressed the importance of discipline, integrity, and accountability, noting that leadership must set the standard. ‘If discipline is weak at the top, it will collapse below. Tighten discipline, strengthen performance, and rebuild trust,’ she added. The Minister acknowledged significant government investments in infrastructure, technology, and training since 2020 but cautioned that resources alone cannot safeguard the institution’s reputation. Addressing emerging challenges such as border security and economic growth, she urged commanders to ensure that resources translate into tangible outcomes, fostering community security and restoring public pride in the police force. Minister Walrond pledged her unwavering support as the Force strives to become a professional, respected, and trusted institution.