Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has urged opposition protests against U.S. policies rather than the Guyanese government concerning Melissa Atwell’s detention. He emphasized that the PPP has no control over U.S. immigration and that the responsibility lies with U.S. authorities. Atwell is set to appear before a U.S. Immigration Judge on March 28.
On Thursday, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo called on opposition leaders to direct their protests toward the U.S. government regarding the recent detention of social media activist Melissa Atwell by U.S. immigration authorities. He emphasized that the situation fell under U.S. jurisdiction and reiterated that the Guyanese government has no influence over U.S. immigration policies.
During a speech at the Square of the Revolution, Dr. Jagdeo acknowledged the right to protest but cautioned that those protesting were being misled. He firmly stated, “We are not going to get sucked into a debate around Ms. Atwell.” Dr. Jagdeo elaborated that complaints regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) should be directed to the U.S. authorities, not the PPP administration.
Further addressing claims that the PPP was involved in Atwell’s treatment, Dr. Jagdeo pointed to anti-PPP sentiments driving such allegations. He insisted, “If they object to Trump’s policies, they should say that clearly. Do not bring the PPP into it.” He clarified that decisions regarding Atwell’s residency in the U.S. remain the prerogative of U.S. officials, adding, “If she stays there, we wish her well. If she comes home, she is welcomed as a Guyanese citizen.”
Dr. Jagdeo reaffirmed that the government could not control Atwell’s statements, regardless of her location. He indicated that the public would discern that the PPP’s standing would not be influenced by external comments. Regarding Atwell’s case, he mentioned that ICE typically detains individuals for immigration-related matters, noting that her claim of U.S. citizenship complicates her situation, stating, “If she is indeed a U.S. citizen, then it would be unusual, but if not, she may face further difficulties.”
Atwell is scheduled to appear before a U.S. Immigration Judge on March 28 after being transferred to Louisiana following her arrest in New York last Thursday.
In summary, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has urged the opposition to protest the U.S. government’s immigration policies instead of blaming the Guyanese government for the detention of Melissa Atwell. He clarified the government’s lack of control over U.S. immigration enforcement and reiterated the importance of directing grievances to the appropriate authorities. As the situation unfolds, the implications for Atwell’s status and the reactions of opposition parties remain to be observed.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
