By Mark DaCosta- significant political development set to disrupt the status quo, businessman and philanthropist Azruddin Mohamed has declared his candidacy for the presidency in the upcoming General and Regional Elections scheduled for September 1, 2025. His announcement, delivered via a heartfelt video on social media, positions him as a candidate of the people, one who intends to confront the critical issues affecting everyday citizens in our nation.
At the heart of Mohamed’s message is his belief in public service over personal ambition. He passionately asserted, “I stand ready to raise my hand, put my shoulder to the task, and dedicate my mind and heart to building a world-class Guyana where every citizen is treated equally.” With rising living costs and deepening economic divides as backdrops to his campaign, he expressed disappointment at the government’s tendency to engage in lavish displays, claiming that while ordinary people struggle, the ruling PPP administration pushes foreign entertainers and extravagant events.
However, Mohamed’s candidacy comes at a politically charged moment, particularly regarding the early election date set by President Irfaan Ali. This decision, critics argue, seems strategically designed to weaken Mohamed’s prospects by limiting the time he has to establish a political infrastructure, especially when pitted against the entrenched machinery of the PPP. The early elections, which many view as premature, have raised eyebrows, and speculation abounds that this move is aimed at sidelining Mohamed, an increasingly popular figure among the populace.
Although he and his father currently face U.S. sanctions related to allegations of gold smuggling, Mohamed’s rising popularity cannot be denied. His message resonates deeply with citizens dissatisfied with the current administration’s oversight of national issues, particularly as it relates to local economic conditions. The perception that the PPP is utilising its established campaign framework to shore up early advantages only serves to galvanise support for Mohamed among those yearning for change.
During his announcement, which coincided with celebrations of Independence Day, Mohamed encapsulated a vision of unity and empowerment for all Guyanese. He invoked the memories of the late presidents Forbes Burnham and Cheddi Jagan — figures admired for their dedication to uplifting the masses — declaring, “Every inch of this land belongs to us, and we will never surrender what our ancestors fought so valiantly to preserve.” He made it clear that the current administration has strayed from these values, as evidenced by the hardships faced by families across the nation.
Reflecting on the struggles of ordinary citizens, he shared, “I considered those families who woke with empty chairs at their breakfast tables, missing loved ones who should be here to celebrate with us.” Mohamed articulated the plight of families forced to cut back on Independence traditions due to skyrocketing costs, painting a stark contrast to the government’s focus on foreign entertainment. “These families are not dazzled by red carpets rolled out for foreign entertainers while their own struggles go unnoticed,” he remarked.
Positioning himself as a beacon of hope amid discontent with the PPP, Mohamed proposed a vision of leadership that genuinely serves the people. He called for an end to tribal voting, urging Guyanese to embrace a collective ambition — “the answer to genuine love for Guyana is in the heart of every citizen.” This inclusive rhetoric is aimed at fostering unity against an administration perceived to prioritise its own interests above those of the citizens.
As the political tumult unfolds, Mohamed called for international observers, stressing the need for a transparent electoral process that adheres to democratic principles. “We have seen strong examples of leadership on the global stage from the United Nations, and we look forward to the continued support of CARICOM,” he stated, signifying a firm commitment to ensuring electoral integrity amidst a backdrop of suspicion regarding the PPP’s motives.
With the implications of the early election date weighing heavily on the political climate, Mohamed’s candidacy embodies a necessary counterforce to the ruling party’s grip on power. He concluded his announcement with a strong message advocating vigilance among the citizenry: “The oil beneath our waters is temporary. The gold in our ground will one day be exhausted. But the potential in our people, that’s renewable, that’s permanent.”
The early elections, viewed through a critical lens, represent not just a political manoeuvre but a deliberate attempt by the PPP to maintain its stranglehold on power. In positioning himself as a representative of change, Mohamed ignites optimism among a populace yearning for leadership that remembers its roots and prioritises the needs of all citizens. As the potential for a transformative dialogue emerges, it remains to be seen whether the approaching elections will indeed usher in a new era of governance or whether the entrenched powers will succeed in stifling the calls for change.
