Attorney General Anil Nandlall has criticized Nigel Hughes, leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), for alleged conflicts of interest arising from his dual roles as a political leader and a prominent criminal lawyer.
During his weekly program, “Issues in the News,” Nandlall highlighted Hughes’ position at the helm of the AFC, a party that has recently raised concerns over rising crime rates in Guyana and threatened protest actions.
According to Nandlall, Hughes’ role as a top criminal lawyer exacerbates the conflict of interest, as Hughes is perceived to be seeking the benefits of both his legal career and political stance on crime.
Nandlall, who has a background in criminal law himself, emphasized that individuals in such positions must choose between representing alleged criminals and fighting crime.
He drew a parallel with Khemraj Ramjattan, a former PPP executive member, who faced similar issues that contributed to his departure from the party.
Further complicating matters, Hughes’ legal firm, Hughes, Fields, and Stoby, represents ExxonMobil, leading to accusations of conflicts related to the oil industry.
Despite these criticisms, Hughes has defended his stance, asserting that he maintains a clear separation between his personal, political, and professional interests.
The Attorney General remains firm in his view that if Hughes is to actively engage in crime-related political issues, he should not simultaneously represent clients involved in criminal matters.