Guyana: Opposition Leader Questions President’s Wealth and Calls for Resignation

Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed has publicly called for the resignation of President Irfaan Ali, raising concerns regarding the President’s ownership of a significant livestock farm and private estate located at Long Creek along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. In a statement shared on Team Mohamed’s Facebook page, he estimated the current market value of the 150-acre ranch to exceed $5 billion.

Mohamed highlighted the disparity between this estimated value and Ali’s official presidential salary, which he stated is approximately $3.7 million per month. He emphasized that President Ali has dedicated his career to public service, questioning how he could acquire such wealth. “President Irfaan Ali has confirmed his ownership of the luxury estate ranch, which is estimated to be worth more than $5 billion based on the current market value of land along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway while his presidential salary is $3.7 million dollars per month,” Mohamed remarked.

Furthermore, Mohamed alleged that the estate was developed within three years of Ali assuming office in 2020, raising serious questions about the President’s financial status and accusing him of misusing public office. He pointed out that this controversy arises at a time when many citizens in Guyana are experiencing poverty and economic difficulties, labeling the situation as a “lasting mark of shame.” Mohamed suggested that Ali may be remembered as Guyana’s “most corrupt and selfish president.”

Additionally, the Opposition Leader connected the ranch issue to the proposed Former Presidents (Benefits and Other Facilities) Bill currently under consideration in the National Assembly. He claimed that this bill would provide former presidents with various benefits, including unlimited utilities, technical and clerical staff, security, and state-owned vehicles, which could potentially allow Ali to sustain his private estate at the expense of taxpayers.

In response to the criticism, President Ali stated that he has made the necessary declarations to the Integrity Commission as mandated by law. He asserted that the acquisition of his assets and the sources of funds used for these acquisitions can be verified through appropriate financial and regulatory records. Despite this, Mohamed insists that the President should address these allegations publicly and resign immediately.

Source: hgptv.com