By Samuel Sukhnandan
The recent attendance of President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali at an event hosted by the Assemblies of God Church has sparked criticism from opposition circles, drawing sharp responses from the General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo.
During a weekly press conference held at Freedom House, Dr. Jagdeo condemned what he termed as “personal attacks” on President Ali, particularly in response to a publication criticizing the President’s participation in the religious event.
The article suggested that President Ali’s involvement in such activities blurs the line between church and state, raising concerns about the entanglement of politics and religion.
Dr. Jagdeo rebutted these criticisms, asserting that President Ali’s attendance was apolitical and aimed at fostering national unity.
He highlighted the President’s engagement with various religious communities, including Hindu and Muslim functions, as part of a broader effort to promote religious and racial tolerance in the country.
Furthermore, Dr. Jagdeo criticized the opposition, particularly the People’s National Congress (PNC), for attempting to exploit the President’s religious engagements for political gain.
He accused the PNC of harboring a misguided belief that they should have predominant influence over Afro-Guyanese believers of the Christian faith.
Addressing concerns raised in the publication, Dr. Jagdeo emphasized that President Ali’s actions are consistent with the government’s philosophy of inclusivity and unity. He urged the public to reject divisive religious rhetoric and unnecessary criticism directed at the President.
In conclusion, Dr. Jagdeo underscored the importance of promoting national unity and understanding among Guyana’s diverse religious and ethnic groups, emphasizing that criticisms of the President’s religious engagements are often unwarranted and baseless.