Latest update April 4th, 2025 12:14 AM
ERC addresses rising tensions at Mohamed’s community meetings
…calls for unity and peace
Kaieteur News- The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) condemned the rising ethnic and political tensions within communities during meetings held by city businessman Azzrudin Mohammed across the country.
These tensions have been particularly evident in recent incidences in Letter Kenny, Corentyne Berbice, and Lima Sands, Essequibo Coast.
In response to the recent clashes between supporters of Mohamed and groups of protesters, allegedly led by members of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), ERC Commissioner Norris Witter explained on Monday that the Commission’s intervention was prompted by a series of actions that unfolded during the meetings.
“One has to be with the altercation between the two groups by Lima and people by the other altercation, where there was actual physical contact, I think it was Letter Kenny. That is one group- the young Mohamed- and the other group was protesting against the Mohamed,” Witter told this publication.
The commissioner specifically pointed out PPP activist Indira Jaffrally, who openly identified herself as representing the PPP, and who initiated a physical encounter between her and People’s National Congress (PNC) supporter, Terrence Moore.
However, he pointed out, “But it was the Lima incident that prompted that release.”
He said a cautionary statement has been issued in an effort to de-escalate the tensions. Should the tensions persist, Witter said appropriate actions may be taken. These actions will be considered if the behavior of the individual is perceived to violate laws such as the Racial Hostility Act or the Representation of the People Act.
Screen grab from Team Mohamed’s live, showing when the resident was pushed, while saying, “Video this big man (Hussain) he telling the girl to slap Mr. Ramayya (Dr. Veerasammy Ramayya), video him.”
The ERC first related its concerns in a letter published in Monday’s edition of Kaieteur News, calling for unity among communities and political parties.
The Commission said it was aware of the rising public discourse, both online and offline, which is contributing to divisiveness.
The letter stated, “As such, the ERC denounces all acts that seek to undermine peace, respect, and understanding in our nation,” further reminding citizens to “act with restraint and engage in constructive dialogue, regardless of political affiliation.”
Stressing that history has shown how hostility and divisiveness can harm the nation’s harmony, the Commission called on leaders and supporters of all political parties to uphold the principles of peace, unity, and respect for diversity, emphasising that political discourse should never be allowed to cause ethnic divisions or conflict.
“The Commission remains committed to its mandate of promoting ethnic harmony and stands ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure national unity,” the letter stated.
It continued, “We urge all Guyanese to reject inflammatory rhetoric and behaviour that could heighten tensions, and instead work toward strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and national unity. Let us move forward together, upholding the values of peace, respect, and understanding as we promote harmony and good relations.”
The Alliance For Change (AFC) has already condemned the actions of the PPP activists, warning that such tactics could undermine citizens’ rights and create a negative atmosphere ahead of the elections. The party also criticised the absence of police presence during the protests, urging the Police Commissioner to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights to peacefully assemble and engage in political discourse.
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