Supporters rallied at the Square of the Revolution to demand the release of Melissa Atwell-Holder, known as Melly Mel, following her detention in the US. Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton claimed her arrest was politically motivated and called for Guyanese in the US to lobby Congress. Several political figures joined the rally, emphasizing the importance of defending democracy and free speech against government retaliation over criticisms. Future rallies are planned to continue this advocacy.
In a rally held at the Square of the Revolution, a significant number of supporters gathered to advocate for the release of social and political activist Melissa Atwell-Holder, also known as Melly Mel. The participants expressed their unwavering commitment to her cause, expressing that they would not cease their efforts until she is freed from US detention. Many attendees chanted slogans such as “free Melly Mel” and accused the Government of Guyana of orchestrating her arrest in retaliation to her criticisms.
Atwell-Holder was apprehended at her New York residence by the Department of Homeland Security and subsequently transferred to a detention facility operated by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency. The Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, emphasized that her arrest was a direct consequence of her exposing governmental corruption, stating, “Melissa’s only crime is that she exposed corruption.” Norton also highlighted that the PPP government often resorts to forgery and criminal activities, viewing Atwell-Holder’s activism as a threat to their authority.
Furthermore, Norton called for an international campaign urging Guyanese residing in the United States to engage US politicians to seek Atwell-Holder’s release, asserting, “this fight is also in the United States.” He encouraged the community to mobilize and contact their acquaintances to prompt correspondence with American senators and congressional members.
At the rally, Opposition Member of Parliament Amanza Walton-Desir reinforced the importance of defending democracy against what she termed as governmental aggression, stating, “an attack on Melly Mel, is an attack on free speech.” She attributed responsibility for Atwell-Holder’s detention to President Irfaan Ali and Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, insisting that their complaints were the catalyst behind her legal troubles.
Highlighting the broader implications of injustice, Norris Witter, President of the Guyana Trades Union Congress, quoted Martin Luther King Jr., conveying that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” One of Melissa Atwell-Holder’s close allies, Odessa Primus, asserted the need for unity among Guyanese to combat injustices perpetrated by the current administration, stating, “We shall not be silenced by this government.” Atwell-Holder is expected to appear before a US Immigration Judge in June, but a preliminary bond hearing may occur prior to that date. The rally effort will persist, with the next gathering planned for the upcoming Tuesday.
In conclusion, the ongoing rally supporting Melissa Atwell-Holder underscores the mobilization of Guyanese citizens and political figures advocating for her release from US detention. The opposition leaders assert that her arrest is politically motivated due to her exposures of governmental misconduct. The community expresses a resolve to fight for democracy and free speech, with further actions planned to influence US legislators.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
