Former Minister and Member of Parliament Annette Ferguson has called on Guyanese to take a collective stand against what she described as threats to democracy, the rule of law and citizens’ constitutional rights, arguing that the controversy involving Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed extends beyond any one individual.
In a social media post on Sunday, Ferguson said the developments involving Mohamed and members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) should concern every Guyanese, regardless of political affiliation.
“Let me make it abundantly clear; this is not about Azruddin Mohamed! This is about the serious implications and consequences of what is unfolding before our very eyes, and how these developments can affect our future, our democracy, the rule of law and the country we call home.”
Ferguson said a video circulating on Facebook had left her deeply disturbed and questioning whether citizens were safe in their own country.
“Guyana is in deep, deep trouble!”
She expressed particular concern about what she described as the apparent silence of the Commissioner of Police, questioning whether the Commissioner has effective oversight and control of the ranks and whether officers are carrying out their duties impartially, professionally and in accordance with the law.
She also warned against any perception that members of the Force were politically aligned or being used to advance personal or political interests.
“No police officer should be seen as an instrument of political power or used to advance anyone’s personal or political agenda.”
Ferguson linked her concerns to broader national issues, including the high cost of living, allegations of corruption, accountability in government, the distribution of benefits from Guyana’s oil resources and declining public confidence in national institutions.
Questions surrounding October 12 shooting
Her comments come amid continuing controversy over the October 12 shooting incident outside the Kitty residence of Senior Superintendent Prem Narine, head of the GPF’s Special Branch Unit.
Police initially reported that Narine heard what appeared to be a gunshot as a vehicle carrying Mohamed and two associates passed his residence. According to the police account, Narine took cover and fired several rounds towards the vehicle, which was later intercepted.
Mohamed has disputed the official account and subsequently presented surveillance footage at a press conference, arguing that it supports his version of events. He and his two associates, Eugene Thorne and Mario Mohamed, have pleaded not guilty to charges arising from the incident. The case was adjourned to November 27 for further disclosure of prosecution evidence. <Cite refs={[“turn210588search0″,”turn210588search1″,”turn210588search10”]}/>
Ferguson said the testimony given by Narine in court, particularly his account of who allegedly fired first and what he claimed to have heard, must be examined alongside the available video footage and all other relevant evidence.
“The public deserves the truth, not selective narratives.”
She also urged citizens not to accept official accounts without scrutiny, referring to evidence presented by Mohamed at his press conference. Ferguson said she was particularly concerned about the treatment of the Opposition Leader and the implications for constitutional rights and due process in future cases involving political leaders.
The controversy has taken another turn following the circulation of additional video footage. On Monday, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions said the footage being shared on social media was an excerpt from a longer recording and formed part of the prosecution’s evidence in the ongoing criminal case. The DPP cautioned that circulating only a portion of the recording could distort the evidence. <Cite refs={[“turn210588search12”]}/>
Ferguson stressed that she had no personal brief for Mohamed, insisting that her position was based on principles of justice, truth and accountability.
“I hold no brief for Azruddin Mohamed!”
She added:
“I am standing on the side of justice, truth, principles and accountability, regardless of whose interests may be affected.”
Ferguson maintained that the Government, the police and the Director of Public Prosecutions must recognise that public office carries responsibility and accountability, and that no government is above the Constitution, the law or the people it was elected to serve.
She also called on Guyanese to fast and pray for the country, while emphasising that prayer must be accompanied by civic responsibility and a willingness to demand answers.
Quoting Proverbs 29:2, she wrote:
“When the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.”
Her message concluded with a call for national unity and collective action against injustice and abuses of power.
“Guyana belongs to all of us, not any political party!”
“Guyanese, it is time we stand together against injustice, abuse of power and the erosion of our democratic rights!”
She ended with a direct appeal to the public: “Silence is not an option! Wake up, Guyana!”
