The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) has called on the Government of Guyana to halt all discussions with the United States regarding the acceptance of third-country nationals, citing concerns over economic and national security implications.
APNU Chairman Aubrey Norton, speaking at a press conference on Friday, described the proposal as “unacceptable” and warned that it could strain national resources. “Accepting non-Guyanese deportees through deportation is unacceptable. Were they assets, the sending government would have kept them. Why would we accept what others do not want?” Norton said, urging the government to stop pursuing any agreement until national interests are fully considered.
He also raised concerns about the potential economic impact, noting that recent geopolitical developments in the Latin America and Caribbean region could exacerbate the situation. “Should any migration issues arise, we will be forced to distribute national wealth to supply the needs of migrants,” Norton added.
The government has confirmed that talks are ongoing with the U.S. Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud told Stabroek News that Guyana and the United States are nearing an agreement under which Georgetown would receive third-country nationals who are either refugees or non-felons, with the right to refuse any proposed individuals.
“We have been in productive discussions on a framework of understanding which is consistent with our national priorities and needs and supportive of the USA objectives… these discussions are ongoing,” Persaud said.
Norton stressed that any agreement should only proceed after consultations with national stakeholders and the establishment of a clear migration policy with systems to manage such movements. Until then, he said, APNU is not prepared to support the proposed arrangement.
