Guyana: PNCR/APNU Seeks Clarification from President Ali Regarding Linden-Soesdyke Lands

The PNCR/APNU has called on President Dr. Irfaan Ali to provide a comprehensive disclosure of his income, assets, liabilities, and any financial arrangements associated with lands along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. The party has expressed that recent developments regarding these properties have raised significant questions that necessitate clear responses.

The party highlighted that this issue is not unprecedented, referencing one of the 19 fraud-related charges that were previously filed against Ali prior to his presidency, which involved lands along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. These charges were ultimately discontinued following Ali’s assumption of office. By bringing up this historical context, the PNCR/APNU contends that the current inquiries regarding the lands should not be regarded as new or isolated incidents.

Furthermore, the party is demanding that President Ali clarify whether he is the beneficial owner of the farm lands in question. They pointed out that reports indicate the lease arrangement for these lands costs approximately $25 million annually. The PNCR/APNU believes the public has a right to understand how these payments are financed and whether they align with the President’s declared sources of income.

The PNCR/APNU emphasized that as President of Guyana, Ali has a fiduciary responsibility to maintain high standards of transparency and accountability. They argue that citizens deserve to know how the wealth associated with the lands was acquired and whether all legally required declarations have been fulfilled.

The party stated that full disclosure would help alleviate doubts, enhance public confidence, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to good governance. They asserted that no public official should be exempt from scrutiny in a democratic society. The PNCR/APNU remarked, “The President must answer these legitimate questions and provide the accountability that the people of Guyana deserve.” This controversy was initially highlighted by Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, who released a video questioning President Ali’s ownership of a luxury ranch at Long Creek and suggesting that the property’s value could not be reconciled with the President’s official income. Mohamed also connected this issue to the proposed Former Presidents benefits bill, indicating that taxpayers might end up funding benefits related to the property after Ali leaves office.

Source: hgptv.com