Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo addressed protests regarding Melissa Atwell’s detention, suggesting that opposition members focus their grievances on U.S. immigration policies. He emphasized that the case falls under U.S. jurisdiction and not the Guyanese government. Jagdeo affirmed that Atwell’s situation is a matter for the U.S. authorities to resolve.
On Thursday, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo addressed the recent protests regarding social media activist Melissa Atwell’s detention by U.S. immigration authorities. He urged the opposition to redirect their grievances towards the U.S. government rather than blaming the Guyanese government. Despite affirming the right to protest, Dr. Jagdeo emphasized that the issue falls under U.S. jurisdiction and not the purview of the PPP administration.
Dr. Jagdeo highlighted that protestors were misinformed about the Guyanese government’s role in U.S. immigration matters. He stated, “We are not going to get sucked into a debate around Ms. Atwell,” clarifying that the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operates independently of the Guyanese government. He insisted, “If there is a problem with U.S. immigration policies, the opposition should protest directly to the U.S. government.”
Responding to claims linking the PPP administration with U.S. policies affecting Atwell, he remarked that such allegations predominantly emerge from anti-PPP factions. He also remarked, “If they object to Trump’s policies, they should say that clearly. Do not bring the PPP into it.” Dr. Jagdeo reiterated that decisions regarding Atwell’s status are solely up to the U.S. government, remarking that whether she remains in the U.S. or returns to Guyana, she is welcomed as a citizen.
Additionally, Dr. Jagdeo reiterated that the government is not in control of Atwell’s statements, regardless of her location, emphasizing that the PPP party remains steadfast amidst controversies. He further explained that ICE typically detains individuals for immigration-related reasons, noting Atwell’s claim of U.S. citizenship, which, if verified, could render her case unusual but not without precedent. He stated that Atwell would appear before a U.S. Immigration Judge on March 28, having been arrested in New York and subsequently transferred to Louisiana for detention.
In conclusion, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo clarified that the issues surrounding Melissa Atwell’s detention are governed by U.S. immigration policy and should not implicate the Guyanese government. He urged opposition members to direct their protests towards the relevant authorities in the U.S., asserting that the PPP administration has no influence over such matters. Ultimately, the decision concerning Atwell’s future rests with the U.S. government, and she remains a welcomed citizen of Guyana regardless of her location.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
