November 7, 2024
Alliance for Change (AFC) leader, Nigel Hughes, has firmly declined to apologize for his party’s involvement in the alleged attempts to rig the 2020 general and regional elections.
His refusal has sparked criticism from the General Secretary of the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, who has described Hughes’ stance as disingenuous and an attempt to deflect from the core issue.
The PPP has consistently pointed to the AFC’s role in the controversial electoral process, claiming that the party, which was part of the previous coalition government, was actively involved in undermining the 2020 elections.
Dr. Jagdeo, addressing the media, emphasized that the lack of an apology from Hughes shows a lack of accountability and willingness to acknowledge the truth.
Dr. Jagdeo further stated that there is substantial evidence pointing to the AFC’s involvement in the electoral malpractice, yet the party continues to deny its participation.
He suggested that this refusal to come forward and engage with the public in a transparent manner is reflective of Hughes’ unsuitability to lead a political party.
In the aftermath of the 2020 elections, a number of individuals, including former government ministers, opposition members, and staff from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), were charged with electoral fraud.
The court cases involving these individuals are scheduled to be heard again on November 29, 2024, before Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.
The ongoing legal proceedings and the political fallout from the election controversy continue to be a point of contention in Guyanese politics.