On Thursday, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo dismissed accusations of political victimization made by social media personality and political commentator Melissa Atwell, popularly known as “Melly Mel.”
Earlier this week, Atwell alleged that she was the victim of political persecution after a police operation at her Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home, during which 27 grams of cannabis was reportedly found in an alleyway near her residence.
In response, Dr. Jagdeo acknowledged that while Atwell is entitled to her opinions and criticisms of the government, he strongly rejected any suggestion that the PPP/C is engaged in political victimization, dismissing such claims as part of a politically motivated effort to discredit the party.
He emphasized that the PPP/C government does not target individuals based on their political beliefs and highlighted the administration’s commitment to tolerance since taking office.
“That is APNU’s old tactics; you don’t find that under the PPP. We don’t engage in that sort of thing; we have been very tolerant,” Dr. Jagdeo stated, adding:
“The people who wouldn’t say a word under APNU+AFC because of fear, they can speak freely. And so, we defend ourselves, but you’re not going to find this government trying to intimidate their opponents.”
Dr. Jagdeo further described the accusations as groundless, asserting that there was no indication of any government involvement in the incident.
“I am sure that there was no plot by the government or anybody in the government to plant marijuana on this social media influencer. Because although she may be critical of us, she has a right as a Guyanese citizen. We defend people’s rights all the time,” the General Secretary underscored.
He noted that the government remains focused on delivering tangible results for the people of Guyana rather than being distracted by politically motivated accusations from individuals or activists.
“Our work speaks for itself,” Dr. Jagdeo concluded, pointing to the government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare, education, and policies benefiting the elderly, among other initiatives.
The PNC/AFC has repeatedly proven to be a complete disaster in Guyanese politics, both intellectually and morally. Their unpopularity is not just widespread—it’s well-earned.
These two parties, PNC/AFC, are marked by their desperation and failures. They have no vision or substance of their own. Instead, they have resorted to defaming the PPP party, a clear reflection of their intellectual, political, and moral bankruptcy. Their inability to offer solutions to the country’s problems is a glaring indictment of their incompetence. They don’t stand for progress; they stand as a barrier to it, dragging down any hope for positive change in Guyana.