Tensions rose during Azruddin Mohamed’s outreach meeting in Lima Sands, where around 100 residents attempted to discuss their concerns amid protests from PPP/C supporters, including MP Nandranie Coonjah. The meeting saw delays and confrontations, reflecting significant local dissatisfaction with government responsiveness and infrastructure issues.
A public confrontation arose between supporters of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and businessman Azruddin Mohamed during his outreach meeting in Lima Sands, Region Two. Approximately 100 local residents assembled for the meeting, demonstrating their eagerness to express their issues prior to Mohamed’s election campaign launch. However, tensions escalated as PPP/C supporters, led by Member of Parliament Nandranie Coonjah, attempted to prevent Mohamed from engaging with the community.
Around 15 PPP/C supporters protested outside the community, utilizing placards and loudspeakers to condemn Mohamed’s visit. One protester stated, “Just to remind you, all of you people that Mr. Mohamed has been sanctioned by the US,” emphasizing political allegiance from the current administration. Another male protester insisted that residents should evict Mohamed, demanding, “Pay your tax! Everybody get Mohamed out of Lima Sands, chase him, get him out!”
During the clash, MP Coonjah attempted to document the protests and recorded interactions with the residents using her camera. The confrontation escalated, resulting in residents responding to her provocations, which ultimately compelled her to vacate the meeting area. Although the meeting, originally scheduled for 2 p.m., faced delays due to protests, Mohamed gained access by 5 p.m. and continued discussions until 9 p.m. Residents, who had arrived hours earlier, expressed frustrations regarding the lack of engagement from local officials.
A video shared on Team Mohamed’s Facebook page highlighted constituents urging support for his campaign, with remarks reflecting their disappointment towards governmental neglect. One resident remarked, “Mr. Mohamed, if you are running, every one of us here will support you because the people in Lima Sands, we have a lot of issues.” Additionally, they expressed dissatisfaction with essential services, remarking on the dilapidated conditions and limited infrastructural advancements in their area.
Overall, the encounter showcased the growing tensions between political factions in Guyana and highlighted dissatisfaction with local governance, as residents continue to advocate for their unmet needs and challenges.
The tensions surrounding Azruddin Mohamed’s outreach meeting in Lima Sands reveal significant dissatisfaction among residents towards current political representatives and their ability to address local concerns. The incident underlines a critical pre-election climate marked by contestation and the urgent calls for improved governance and infrastructure. Engaging with constituents will remain vital as both sides navigate this increasingly polarized political landscape.
Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com
