The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) has issued a strong condemnation of President Irfaan Ali’s recent hostile confrontation with a member of the media, following a pointed question about the government’s engagement of a U.S.-based lobbying firm.
On July 1, 2025, News Source reporter Svetlana Marshall courageously challenged the government over its controversial decision to spend US$50,000 every month—funded by taxpayers’ money—on a U.S.-based lobbying firm. This lobbying effort is reportedly being used to demonise WIN presidential candidate Azruddin Mohamed on the international stage, as part of a state-backed campaign to secure the re-election of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).
President Irfaan Ali, clearly caught off guard, vehemently denied the claims but failed to clarify how exactly public funds are being used or address the authenticity of leaked letters and WhatsApp messages pointing to this covert operation.
The situation has sparked growing outrage among citizens, who question why their hard-earned money is being diverted not to improve lives but to silence and undermine fellow Guyanese political voices. This alarming misuse of state resources raises urgent concerns about transparency, accountability, and the ethical responsibilities of those in power.
IFAAD Vice Chairman Pt. Ubraj Narine described the President’s outburst as “a direct assault on press freedom” and a worrying indication of “growing intolerance toward scrutiny, accountability, and transparency” within the current administration.
The incident, witnessed by members of the public and media representatives, unfolded as the journalist sought clarity on the government’s use of taxpayers’ dollars to finance foreign lobbying activities—a matter of significant public interest.
“In any democracy, a free press must be empowered to ask tough questions and hold leaders to account,” Narine said. “The President’s combative reaction raises serious concerns about the nature of these dealings and the government’s willingness to be transparent.”
IFAAD has called on civil society groups, media organizations, and international human rights advocates to demand that President Ali retract his attack and formally apologize to the journalist involved. Furthermore, the group urges a full disclosure of the government’s lobbying contracts and the funding mechanisms behind them.
The statement stresses that “this nation must not descend into fear and intimidation,” reminding the administration that “accountability, not arrogance, is the cornerstone of leadership.” It also affirmed that “bullying journalists will not silence the truth nor suppress the growing demand from citizens for answers.”
IFAAD reaffirmed its solidarity with the media and pledged to continue advocating for justice, transparency, and equal protection under the law in Guyana.
