‘Disgusting, reprehensible’ – Jagdeo slams critics of First Lady’s charity ball

As he championed First Lady Mrs. Arya Ali’s focus on supporting vulnerable groups, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo slammed those who criticised her recent charity ball.

The Vice President lamented that several individuals, including politicians from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), mischaracterised the ball and sought to disparage the First Lady and those who attended.

He labeled those critics as “narrow-minded” folks and said their statements were both “disgusting” and “reprehensible.”

The ball was a fundraising venture and will support much of the work the First Lady does.

The Vice President reminded reporters at his weekly press conference that Mrs. Ali is supporting teenage girls through her menstrual hygiene initiative, while also supporting orphanages, persons with disabilities and vulnerable women. He also noted that the First Lady is also an integral part of the National Beautification project which has heralded in a transformation of many of Guyana’s open spaces.

Cognisant of her ventures, the Vice President took much umbrage to those who were critical of the ball.

“Not a cent of taxpayer’s money went to fund the ball and they sought to disparage not just the First Lady but the President and all of the people who attended.

“I hope that the people who went there, spent their own money to go there, for a cause, that is to raise money for charity, see what APNU says,” the Vice President said.

Additionally, Jagdeo said individuals should not be critised for how they choose to spend their money- more so if they spend their hard-earned cash on charitable ventures.