𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 The remand of the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, MP, raises concerns about the state of democracy, freedom of expression and the rule of law in Guyana. It sends a message that the PPP Government, under President Irfaan Ali, is prepared to use the power of the State to intimidate, oppress and silence those who speak out against its administration, particularly those who expose allegations of corruption and wrongdoing within the PPP Government. The Leader of the Opposition has been vocal in scrutinising the actions and policies of the Irfaan Ali-led PPP Government, bringing matters of public concern to the attention of the Guyanese people. In any functioning democracy, the Opposition has a constitutional and democratic responsibility to hold the Government accountable. Political criticism, scrutiny and the exposure of alleged wrongdoing must never be treated as threats to be suppressed. The circumstances surrounding the remand of the Leader of the Opposition create the perception that political power is being used to weaken opposition voices and discourage citizens from speaking out. This is a dangerous direction for our country. Guyana must never become a society where citizens are afraid to challenge those in authority, where dissent is treated as disloyalty, or where political opponents are made to feel that standing up for accountability comes at a personal cost. No government should be above scrutiny, and no political leader should be beyond accountability. To my fellow Guyanese brothers and sisters, I urge you: do not be afraid to stand up for truth, justice, equality and democracy. Our silence in the face of injustice will only strengthen those who seek to undermine our democratic freedoms. We must remain united, courageous and steadfast in defending the principles upon which our nation was built. We must stand firmly with the Opposition and with every Guyanese who believes in accountability, fairness and democratic freedom. We will not be silenced when our country needs us most. I therefore call for the release of the Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, MP, and insist that his constitutional rights and the principles of due process be respected. Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, free from political influence or interference. History will judge the leadership of President Irfaan Ali by how it treats those who challenge its authority. A President must have the courage to face scrutiny, and engage political opponents through democratic debate rather than allow the perception that State power is being used to intimidate dissent. Guyana deserves leadership that protects its sovereignty, safeguards its national interests and ensures that the country's resources and future are not compromised for political advantage or foreign interests. Guyana belongs to all Guyanese, not to any political party. We must defend our democracy, protect our freedoms and never surrender our voices. 𝐖𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝. 𝐖𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝. 𝐖𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐮𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐚. 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐀𝐳𝐫𝐮𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐨𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝, 𝐌𝐏! Pt. Ubraj Narine, JP, COA Former Staff Sgt. (GDF), Mayor City of Georgetown 31.10.2026 - @ubraj_592