By Celestine Chacon
December 13, 2024
The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has pushed back against recent criticisms from the opposition APNU/AFC regarding the Diamond Ball charity event hosted by First Lady Arya Ali.
The opposition alleged that taxpayer money was used to fund the high-profile event, but PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo dismissed these claims.
According to him, the Diamond Ball was organized to raise funds for several of the First Lady’s charitable initiatives, including her Menstrual Hygiene Programme and Orphanage Adoption Project.
The PPP argued that events of this nature are common globally and serve as important mechanisms to support charitable activities.
Attendees reportedly purchased tickets to contribute directly to these causes, with no public funds involved.
The PPP also defended the rights of individuals to participate in such events, rejecting criticisms about attendees’ expenditures, including on formal attire.
The party described the opposition’s remarks as an attack on efforts aimed at societal betterment.
The Diamond Ball is one of several initiatives led by the First Lady in her ongoing commitment to philanthropy and social development.
The PPP called on citizens to support programs that contribute to national progress rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.