We Invest In Nationhood

Leader of the Opposition Meets with The Carter Center

Today, the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, M.P., together with Hon. Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, M.P., Hon. Odessa Primus, M.P., Hon. Dr. Gordon Barker, M.P., Hon. Natasha Singh-Lewis, M.P., and Ms. Hana Mohamed, Director of Political Affairs, met with representatives of The Carter Center, including Mr. Jason Calder, Country Director (Guyana), and Ms. Brett Lacy, Associate Director of the Democracy Program.

The meeting focused on The Carter Center's 2025 Election Observation Report and its recommendations for strengthening Guyana's democratic institutions and electoral processes.

Discussions centered on electoral reform, including the need for an independent audit of the voters' list, the potential introduction of biometric verification systems, campaign finance legislation, safeguards against the misuse of state resources, equitable access to the media, improved electoral representation, and broader constitutional reforms.

The Leader of the Opposition reaffirmed his position that Guyana should pursue measures to ensure a clean, accurate, and credible voters' list. It was noted that the vast majority of Guyanese continue to have serious concerns regarding electoral integrity and that meaningful reforms are necessary to restore public confidence in the electoral process and encourage greater participation in elections. It was noted that the 2025 elections had one of the lowest voter turnout by percentage.

The Opposition also emphasized the importance of strengthening the independence, professionalism, and credibility of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), including consideration of reforms that reflect Guyana's evolving political landscape while preserving the Commission's independence.

The recommendation that Parliament pursue constitutional and legislative reforms to strengthen democratic institutions and enhance public confidence in future elections was welcomed. Discussions also examined the need for stronger parliamentary oversight, more inclusive governance, and reforms that strengthen the independence of the various arms of government.

The Opposition welcomed The Carter Center's recommendation that Guyana consider establishing an independent Civil Society Development Foundation to support civic participation, community initiatives, and the development of civil society organizations. The Opposition believes that a strong and independent civil society is essential to democratic development and national progress.

Concerns were also raised regarding serious and continued reports of political victimization and discrimination. The Opposition highlighted instances in which supporters in farming communities have been denied access to public resources, including graders, hymacs, and other equipment essential for agricultural development and flood mitigation. Concerns were further expressed regarding intimidation, threats to employment, and other forms of pressure directed at citizens because of their political beliefs or associations, including the case of a pregnant single mother employed as a ten-day worker who faced threats to her employment because of her willingness to openly support the WIN movement.

The importance of protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression and political participation, was also discussed. The Opposition stressed that every Guyanese should be free to participate in the democratic process without fear of victimization or retaliation.

The Leader of the Opposition encouraged The Carter Center to maintain its engagement in Guyana and to consider observing future Local Government Elections, noting that continued international engagement plays an important role in strengthening democratic governance and public confidence at both the national and local levels.

The Opposition also emphasized the important role that the international community, diplomatic partners, election observation missions, and democratic institutions play in supporting democratic norms, constitutional governance, electoral integrity, and respect for fundamental rights. As Guyana continues to evolve politically, it is important that issues relating to electoral reform, institutional independence, political inclusion, and equal treatment under the law remain matters of ongoing engagement and attention among all stakeholders committed to democratic development.

The Opposition also provided feedback on future observation and assessment methodologies, encouraging the adoption of sufficiently robust, transparent, and representative sampling techniques to ensure that findings accurately reflect the experiences, concerns, and views of the wider Guyanese population. The Opposition, particularly researcher and professor Dr. Gordon Barker M.P., emphasized the importance of methodological rigor and expressed a willingness to engage constructively with The Carter Center and other stakeholders on approaches that strengthen public confidence in electoral observation, democratic assessments, and the integrity of future electoral processes.

The meeting concluded with discussions on public education and civic awareness. The Opposition encouraged The Carter Center to continue making its findings and recommendations accessible to the wider public through summaries, infographics, and outreach initiatives that promote greater understanding of electoral and governance reforms.

The Leader of the Opposition and his team expressed appreciation for The Carter Center's continued commitment to Guyana and commended the organization for its comprehensive observations and recommendations. The Opposition believes that the report provides an important roadmap for strengthening democracy, transparency, accountability, and public confidence in Guyana's institutions.

The Office of the Leader of the Opposition remains committed to working with all stakeholders to advance meaningful reforms that ensure a fair, inclusive, and credible democratic system for all Guyanese.

𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐄𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐏𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

The Office of the Leader of the Opposition is pleased to welcome you to its official page.

This platform serves as the official source for statements, parliamentary updates, public notices, community engagements, policy positions, and information relating to the work of the Office of the Leader of the Opposition and the Parliamentary Opposition of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana under the leadership of 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐀𝐳𝐫𝐮𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐳 𝐌𝐨𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝, 𝐌.𝐏., 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧.

We are committed to transparency, accountability, democratic engagement, and meaningful communication with all Guyanese at home and across the diaspora.

𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: Due to Facebook's page name change restrictions, the current page name is temporary. The page will be updated to its official title, 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - 𝐆𝐮𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐚, as soon as Facebook permits the change.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

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𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐀𝐳𝐫𝐮𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐳 𝐌𝐨𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝, 𝐌.𝐏.
𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐮𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐚

WIN's Statement of Condolence on the 46th Anniversary of Dr. Walter Rodney’s Assassination

Issued June 13, 2026

To the people of our Guyana, the family of Dr. Walter Rodney, and all who continue to carry his vision forward,

On this solemn day, June 13, 2026, the We Invest is Nationhood- WIN political party join with Guyanese at home and across the diaspora to mark 46 years since the tragic assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney, brilliant historian, political leader, and unflinching champion of the working people.

Even as that incandescent light was extinguished in 1980, the ensuing darkness on account of the loss of such a fearless mind and moral compass, resonates still.

Guyana remembers. Guyana mourns. And Guyana refuses to forget.

Dr. Rodney did not merely lead a political party, he awakened a consciousness. His work, from “How Europe Underdeveloped Africa” to his organizing in Georgetown’s working-class communities, spoke truth to power at a time when silence was the safer path. He believed that ordinary people, armed with knowledge and solidarity, could reshape their destiny. For that, he was silenced by a bomb. But his ideas were never buried.

Today, we remember not only how he died, but why he lived: to demand justice, to challenge exploitation, and to build a Guyana where every voice matters. His assassination remains an open wound, but his legacy is a living call to action.

To his children, his comrades, and all who still walk with his spirit: you are not alone. Guyana has not forgotten. Let this anniversary renew our commitment to the truth Dr. Rodney died defending, that the people’s struggle for dignity, democracy, and development must and will continue.

Rest well, Dr. Rodney. Your work lives in every Guyanese who dares to dream of a just nation.

Issued in sorrow and solidarity by WIN.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WE INVEST IN NATIONHOOD (WIN) WELCOMES LANDMARK EUROPEAN COURT OF JUSTICE RULING ON SANCTIONS AND ACCESS TO BANKING SERVICES

Georgetown, Guyana – June 11, 2026 - The We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) political party notes the judgment delivered today by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in Case C-81/24, which affirmed a fundamental principle of justice and due process: the mere inclusion of a person’s name on a United States sanctions list is not, by itself, sufficient grounds to deny that person access to banking services.

The Court held that financial institutions cannot automatically refuse to establish banking relationships solely because an individual appears on the OFAC sanctions list. Instead, banks are required to conduct an individualized assessment of risk and make decisions based on objective evidence, facts, and proportionality. The Court further recognized that inclusion on such a list does not automatically establish criminal conduct, money laundering, terrorist financing, or any other unlawful activity.

This ruling reinforces a principle that WIN has consistently maintained: sanctions imposed by a foreign government do not extinguish fundamental rights, due process protections, or the presumption of innocence.

The decision is particularly significant given the unprecedented actions taken against WIN Leader and Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, M.P., members of his family and candidates of his political party. Following the imposition of U.S. sanctions, sweeping measures were taken that went far beyond any legal requirement, including the closure and restriction of banking facilities, the freezing of financial activity, the revocation of licenses, the seizure of property, and the systematic targeting of individuals and businesses associated with the Mohamed family.

More troublingly, these actions occurred during a national election period, creating the appearance that foreign sanctions were being used as a political weapon to undermine a presidential candidate, restrict lawful political activity, and deny citizens the opportunity to participate fully in the democratic process.

The CJEU’s judgment underscores that such actions cannot be justified merely by pointing to a sanctions designation. Decisions affecting fundamental rights and access to essential financial services must be based on lawful, individualized assessments rather than assumptions, political pressure, or guilt by association.

WIN further notes that the Court recognized that a sanctions listing may be a factor to consider, but it is not determinative, and cannot replace the obligation to assess each case on its own facts. This principle is consistent with the rule of law, natural justice, and internationally recognized standards of fairness.

Today’s ruling serves as a powerful reminder that democratic societies must guard against executive overreach, arbitrary decision-making, and the erosion of due process rights. No individual should be deprived of access to banking services, economic participation, or political engagement without a lawful and evidence-based justification.

WIN remains committed to defending the rule of law, constitutional rights, due process, and equal treatment before the law for all citizens of Guyana.

END

The We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Party is aware of reports that our Member of Parliament, Deon LaCruz, has been taken into police custody in relation to allegations of domestic violence.

WIN treats all allegations of violence, particularly those involving women and children, with the utmost seriousness. We condemn all forms of domestic violence and support a full, impartial, and professional investigation by the Guyana Police Force.

WIN remains steadfast in its belief that there can be no justification for violence against women or children. Public office is a position of trust and carries with it a heightened responsibility to uphold the law and demonstrate respect for the dignity and safety of others.

While the investigation is ongoing and the facts must be determined through the proper legal process, let there be no ambiguity about our values: violence has no place in our homes, our communities, or our politics. Should these allegations be substantiated, the Party will not hesitate to take the appropriate action consistent with our principles and commitment to accountability.

We stand firmly on the side of justice, the protection of victims, and the rule of law, as we have zero tolerance for domestic and every other form of violence.

WIN MAKES HISTORIC DEBUT AT GUYANA’S DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATION IN BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 🇬🇾🇺🇸

On Sunday, June 7, the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) movement proudly made its historic debut at the Guyana Independence Parade in Brooklyn, New York, joining thousands of Guyanese in one of the largest gatherings of our diaspora to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of our nation's Independence.

Representing the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, MP, were Members of Parliament Hon. Natasha Singh, MP, Hon. Janelle Sweatnam, MP, and Hon. Toshana Corlette-Famey, MP, who joined members of the Guyanese community in celebrating our nation’s rich history, culture, resilience, and achievements.

Participation in the event was proudly organized by the WIN NYC Chapter. Featuring its first-ever parade truck adorned with Guyana’s national colours and flags, received an overwhelming show of support from parade-goers throughout the route, with supporters enthusiastically cheering and chanting in recognition of a movement that continues to gain momentum across Guyana and the diaspora.

As Guyana marks sixty years of Independence, WIN recognizes the invaluable contributions of the diaspora, whose sacrifices, hard work, and love for their homeland continue to strengthen families, communities, and our nation as a whole.

The occasion also served as a reminder that while we celebrate our achievements, many Guyanese continue to face serious challenges. The concerns of Afro-Guyanese communities, particularly regarding economic opportunities, crime, justice, and equal treatment under the law, cannot and must not be ignored. At the same time, WIN recognizes that citizens across every community face hardships that deserve attention and action.

Every Guyanese deserves to feel safe, respected, represented, and empowered regardless of race, background, religion, or political affiliation. The We Invest in Nationhood Movement remains committed to advocating for those whose voices are too often unheard and to building a nation where fairness, dignity, equal opportunity, and justice are not privileges for some, but rights enjoyed by all.

Our nation is strongest when every citizen has a seat at the table and an equal stake in Guyana’s future.

Together we rise. Together we WIN.

Happy 60th Independence Anniversary, Guyana

WIN MAKES HISTORIC DEBUT AT GUYANA’S DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATION IN BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 🇬🇾🇺🇸

On Sunday, June 7, the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) movement proudly made its historic debut at the Guyana Independence Parade in Brooklyn, New York, joining thousands of Guyanese in one of the largest gatherings of our diaspora to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of our nation's Independence.

Representing the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, MP, were Members of Parliament Hon. Natasha Singh, MP, Hon. Janelle Sweatnam, MP, and Hon. Toshana Corlette-Famey, MP, who joined members of the Guyanese community in celebrating our nation’s rich history, culture, resilience, and achievements.

Participation in the event was proudly organized by the WIN NYC Chapter. Featuring its first-ever parade truck adorned with Guyana’s national colours and flags, received an overwhelming show of support from parade-goers throughout the route, with supporters enthusiastically cheering and chanting in recognition of a movement that continues to gain momentum across Guyana and the diaspora.

As Guyana marks sixty years of Independence, WIN recognizes the invaluable contributions of the diaspora, whose sacrifices, hard work, and love for their homeland continue to strengthen families, communities, and our nation as a whole.

The occasion also served as a reminder that while we celebrate our achievements, many Guyanese continue to face serious challenges. The concerns of Afro-Guyanese communities, particularly regarding economic opportunities, crime, justice, and equal treatment under the law, cannot and must not be ignored. At the same time, WIN recognizes that citizens across every community face hardships that deserve attention and action.

Every Guyanese deserves to feel safe, respected, represented, and empowered regardless of race, background, religion, or political affiliation. The We Invest in Nationhood Movement remains committed to advocating for those whose voices are too often unheard and to building a nation where fairness, dignity, equal opportunity, and justice are not privileges for some, but rights enjoyed by all.

Our nation is strongest when every citizen has a seat at the table and an equal stake in Guyana’s future.

Together we rise. Together we WIN.

Happy 60th Independence Anniversary, Guyana.

WIN MAKES HISTORIC DEBUT AT GUYANA’S DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATION IN BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 🇬🇾🇺🇸

On Sunday, June 7, the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) movement proudly made its historic debut at the Guyana Independence Parade in Brooklyn, New York, joining thousands of Guyanese in one of the largest gatherings of our diaspora to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of our nation's Independence.

Representing the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, MP, were Members of Parliament Hon. Natasha Singh, MP, Hon. Janelle Sweatnam, MP, and Hon. Toshana Corlette-Famey, MP, who joined members of the Guyanese community in celebrating our nation’s rich history, culture, resilience, and achievements.

STATEMENT BY REGION TEN MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
Hon. Dr. Ryan M. Richards BDS, MSM, M.P

Region 10 Governance Crisis Deepens as Regional Administration Proceeds with 2027 Budget Consultations Without the Participation of the Elected Regional Democratic Council.

I wish to express my profound concern over the worsening state of democratic governance and regional administration in Region No. 10 (Upper Demerara–Berbice), where the Regional Executive Officer (REO) continues to refuse to reconvene the statutory meeting of the Regional Democratic Council for the completion of the election of a Regional Chairman and Regional Vice Chairman, as required by law.

This situation has now reached a deeply troubling stage.
While the election of the leadership of the 10th Regional Democratic Council remains incomplete, the Regional Administration has reportedly commenced consultations for the preparation of the 2027 Regional Budget without the guidance, participation, oversight, or input of the elected component of the Regional Democratic Council, the eighteen Councillors who were duly elected by the people of Region 10 and sworn into office following the 2025 Regional Elections.

This development raises serious questions about legality, accountability, transparency, and respect for democratic governance.

The Regional Democratic Council is not merely an advisory body. It is the elected local democratic organ established by law to represent the interests of the people at the regional level. The Councillors are not ceremonial office holders. They are elected representatives entrusted with the responsibility of participating in policy discussions, identifying community priorities, scrutinizing expenditure proposals, and ensuring that public resources are allocated in a manner that reflects the needs of the people.

The continued exclusion of the elected Councillors from the budgetary process undermines the very purpose for which they were elected and weakens the principles of representative democracy that underpin Guyana's system of local and regional government.

What is even more alarming is the apparent continuation of functions by the Chairman of the 9th Regional Democratic Council despite the fact that all eighteen Councillors of the 10th Council have already taken their Oath of Office before the REO.
The transition from one Council to another is a cornerstone of democratic governance. Once a new Council is sworn in, democratic legitimacy shifts to that newly constituted body. The continued exercise of authority by officials associated with the previous Council raises significant concerns regarding the proper observance of democratic norms and the spirit of the Local Democratic Organs framework.

Equally troubling are reports that the Chairman of the 9th Council is actively inviting stakeholders to submit proposals for inclusion in the proposed 2027 Regional Budget.

Such actions create confusion regarding authority, accountability, and representation. They risk undermining public confidence in the institutions of regional government and create the appearance that the elected representatives of the people of Region 10 are being sidelined from matters that directly affect the development and future of their communities.

The consequences of this governance vacuum are far-reaching.
Without an elected Regional Chairman and Vice Chairman:
• The statutory committees of the Council cannot be properly constituted and made operational, including the Regional Disaster Preparedness Committee, significantly undermining the Region's capacity to provide coordinated leadership, oversight, and response during critical events such as the ongoing flood situation affecting residents and communities throughout Region 10.
• The elected Council is unable to effectively exercise oversight over the Regional Administration.
• Regional programmes and projects proceed without the full scrutiny contemplated by the law.
• Budgetary priorities may not accurately reflect the needs identified by the elected representatives of the people.
• Public confidence in local democratic institutions is weakened.
• The constitutional principle of representative governance is compromised.
• The integrity of regional tender and procurement processes is undermined as the elected Councillors are prevented from exercising their lawful role in recommending representatives to the Regional tender board. This absence of elected oversight diminishes transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the stewardship of regional resources and public funds.

At its core, this matter is not about political parties. It is about the right of the people of Region 10 to be governed through democratic institutions that operate in accordance with the law.
The people voted. Councillors were elected. Councillors were sworn in. The democratic process must now be allowed to run its lawful course.

I therefore call upon the relevant authorities to act with urgency and responsibility by ensuring that the Regional Democratic Council meeting is reconvened without further delay so that the election of the Regional Chairman and Regional Vice Chairman can be completed in accordance with the Local Democratic Organs Act.

The rule of law must prevail over administrative convenience. Democratic institutions must be respected. The rights of the people of Region 10 must be protected.

No region of Guyana should be denied the full benefit of democratic governance. The people of Region 10 deserve nothing less.

Hon. Dr. Ryan M. Richards BDS, MSM, M.P
Co-operative Republic of Guyana