The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) has expressed grave concern and condemned remarks attributed to Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed that were reportedly made during a religious gathering at a masjid during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to the organisation, comments circulating widely on social media following a report by Guyana Standard and a video clip trending online warned worshippers about alleged “ills” within the Muslim community and singled out lesbians and bisexuals as “persons of questionable character” entering masjids in Georgetown.
In the circulating clip, Mohamed is heard saying, “At our masjid in Georgetown, you know, questionable persons; lesbians, bisexuals coming in the masjid and pray. What are our leaders really doing? Our leaders they are not speaking out. Our leaders are like puppets now in this country.”
However, Mohamed has rejected suggestions that his remarks were discriminatory, stating that the video was “maliciously edited” and does not reflect the full context of what he said during the religious service.
“My comments reflected my personal religious beliefs rooted in the Quran and the Bible, but I respect the dignity and rights of every citizen of Guyana and did not intend to offend or target anyone,” he told Stabroek News when contacted about the video.
IFAAD said it “firmly rejects rhetoric that stigmatizes or marginalizes individuals based on sexual orientation or perceived identity.”
“Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peace, reflection, and compassion. Ramadan, in particular, is a sacred period defined by humility, self-restraint, empathy, and unity. Statements that exclude or demonize any group—especially from within a religious space—undermine these values and risk inciting intolerance, discrimination, and social division,” the organisation said.
The organisation added that it was especially troubled by language that frames members of the LGBTQ+ community as a threat, arguing that such characterisations conflict with Guyana’s constitutional commitment to equality and dignity and the human rights principles to which the country has committed.
Mohamed, however, maintained that his remarks were shared within a religious context and were intended to reflect his personal understanding of religious teachings rather than exclude anyone.
He noted that although he spoke extensively during the service, only 26 seconds of his remarks were shown in the video that has circulated online. According to the Opposition Leader, the edited clip removed the broader context in which he was addressing fellow Muslims about faith and leadership.
When asked about his views on members of the LGBTQ community attending places of worship, Mohamed said such spaces are open to everyone.
“Are public spaces and anyone is welcomed to join,” he said.
IFAAD has called on Mohamed and his political party, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), to clarify and retract any statements that may have contributed to discrimination or fear and to recommit to inclusive and respectful discourse.
“Public officials, regardless of political affiliation, carry a heightened responsibility to promote social cohesion and to exercise care in their speech,” the organisation said.
Mohamed, meanwhile, reiterated that he does not discriminate against anyone based on sexuality or gender identity and expressed support for diversity in Guyana.
“I am always open and supportive of all races, religion, creed and gender…” he said.
IFAAD also urged religious, political and civic leaders to use the Ramadan season to foster understanding and reject prejudice, emphasising that Guyana should remain a society where diversity is respected and every individual’s dignity is protected.
