Former Georgetown Mayor Pt. Ubraj Narine has called for the release of Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, warning that his remand raises concerns about democracy, freedom of expression and the rule of law in Guyana.
In a statement issued on October 31, 2026, Narine said the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, led by President Irfaan Ali, was creating the perception that State power is being used to intimidate political opponents and silence critics, particularly those exposing allegations of corruption and wrongdoing.”
He said the Opposition has a constitutional and democratic responsibility to hold the Government accountable and that political scrutiny must not be treated as a threat.
“Guyana must never become a society where citizens are afraid to challenge those in authority, where dissent is treated as disloyalty, or where political opponents are made to feel that standing up for accountability comes at a personal cost.”
Narine urged Guyanese to defend democratic freedoms and called on the authorities to respect Mohamed’s constitutional rights and due process.
“I therefore call for the release of the Hon. Azruddin Mohamed, MP, and insist that his constitutional rights and the principles of due process be respected. Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done, free from political influence or interference.”
He also challenged President Ali to engage political opponents through democratic debate rather than allow perceptions that State power is being used to suppress dissent.
“History will judge the leadership of President Irfaan Ali by how it treats those who challenge its authority,” Narine said.
The former mayor further called for Guyana’s sovereignty, national interests and resources to be protected from political and foreign interests.
“Guyana belongs to all Guyanese, not to any political party. We must defend our democracy, protect our freedoms and never surrender our voices.”
Narine concluded with a pledge that he and other Guyanese would not be intimidated or silenced.
“We will not be intimidated. We will not be silenced. We will continue to stand for Guyana.”
Mohamed was remanded on October 30 alongside Police Constable Ryan Greene on charges under the Cybercrime Act. Their remand has prompted criticism from political and civil society figures over due process and the treatment of the Opposition Leader.
Narine is a former Guyana Defence Force staff sergeant.
