Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo advocated for opposition protests concerning Melissa Atwell’s detention to be directed at the U.S. government. He clarified that the Guyanese government has no influence over U.S. immigration policies and reiterated that Atwell’s situation is entirely under U.S. jurisdiction. He emphasized that the PPP’s reputation remains intact amidst the protests.
On Thursday, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo suggested that the opposition protests regarding the detention of social media activist Melissa Atwell should focus on the U.S. government rather than the Guyanese government. Addressing protesters at the Square of the Revolution, he emphasized that the issue falls under U.S. jurisdiction and not the authority of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration.
Dr. Jagdeo clarified that the claims linking the PPP to U.S. immigration policies were misguided, stating, “We are not going to get sucked into a debate around Ms. Atwell.” He underscored that allegations should be directed at U.S. policies rather than misattributing responsibility to the PPP.
He further explained that it is entirely up to U.S. authorities to decide whether Atwell will remain in the U.S. or return to Guyana, adding, “If she stays there, we wish her well. If she comes home, she is welcomed as a Guyanese citizen.” The Vice President also indicated that the government does not control Atwell’s statements, affirming that the party’s standing will remain unaffected by public perceptions.
Dr. Jagdeo elaborated on the nature of U.S. immigration enforcement, noting that detentions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) typically stem from immigration issues. He acknowledged Atwell’s claim of U.S. citizenship, remarking that if true, her situation would be unusual but not without precedent. Atwell is due to appear before a U.S. Immigration Judge on March 28, after being detained in Louisiana following her arrest in New York last week.
In conclusion, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo firmly directed the responsibility of addressing U.S. immigration policies to the opposition, emphasizing that the Guyanese government is not at fault for the circumstances surrounding Melissa Atwell. He reiterated that any resolutions regarding her status in the U.S. are solely within the purview of U.S. authorities, and urged the opposition to focus their protests accordingly.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
