Jagdeo dismisses claims PPP delaying Parliament over Azruddin Mohamed

Vice President and PPP/C General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday dismissed claims that the government is delaying the convening of Parliament to prevent Azruddin Mohamed from being sworn in as opposition leader.

Speaking at a press conference at Freedom House, Dr. Jagdeo said the government will convene Parliament within the constitutionally mandated time. “It has nothing to do with whether Mr. Mohammed is elected as opposition leader,” he clarified.

Jagdeo criticised what he described as misleading narratives circulated by the opposition and some media outlets regarding Mohammed’s status. He noted that the Constitution only recognises an opposition leader once Parliament votes to confirm the position. “In Parliament or not, there is no ‘opposition leader-elect’ until that vote takes place,” he said.

He also suggested that the opposition’s public focus on Mohammed stems from attempts to evade legal accountability. Jagdeo pointed to international scrutiny, citing a reward of US$50 million for the arrest or capture of a neighbouring head of state, to underscore that parliamentary positions do not confer immunity.

Turning to government priorities, Jagdeo stressed that once Parliament convenes, the PPP/C will pursue the agenda presented during the election campaign, which he said reflects the mandate of the Guyanese people.

“The agenda is not subject to negotiation,” he said, outlining commitments to education, healthcare, support for pensioners and persons with disabilities, affordable housing, improved security, better-paying jobs, and economic growth beyond Region Four.

“The people voted on this mandate. Now it is how we implement it in a transparent and lawful manner,” Jagdeo said, adding that the government will move forward without seeking approval from civil society or media outlets.