Latest update March 13th, 2026 12:35 AM
‘No Backroom Deals’ – Opposition demands full disclosure on U.S. deportees’ pact
…calls for consultations, parliamentary oversight and national debate
(Kaieteur News) – Opposition parties are demanding full transparency and broad consultation over reported discussions between the Government of Guyana and the United States on an arrangement to accept third-country nationals deported from the U.S., warning that any such agreement must not be concluded behind closed doors.
In a statement on Wednesday, WIN urged the government to refrain from accepting third-country deportees until there is consultation with the opposition and transparency on the terms of any such arrangement.
Leader of We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) Azruddin Mohamed
The party’s position follows media reports that Guyana is in talks with the U.S. to accept third-country nationals. Guyana’s Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud, has since confirmed that the government is engaged in consultations with the U.S. on an arrangement to facilitate the transfer of third-country nationals.
“Specific details and operating procedures including the responsibilities of the sending and receiving parties are still being discussed both bilaterally and internally, to ensure that the arrangement is implemented in full compliance of international legal obligations and national laws and policies of Guyana,” Persaud stated.
He also noted that the U.S. is a strategic partner for Guyana and that the two countries will continue to work closely to strengthen bilateral relations through increased cooperation in areas such as security, defence, migration, trade, investment and energy. However, Persaud noted that because consultations are ongoing between the two countries, it is not possible at this time to provide specific details on the third-country nationals.
WIN, in response, expressed strong opposition to the discussions. “WIN is opposed to any such arrangement. We are deeply concerned that such discussions continue without consultation with the Opposition Leader, without parliamentary scrutiny, and without debate in the National Assembly. Decisions with far-reaching national consequences must not be made behind closed doors. The Guyanese people do not get transparency under the PPP; instead, we are forced to live with their backdoor deals,” the party said.
WIN also questioned whether any public information exists on the background or character of individuals who may be brought to Guyana under such an arrangement.
The party further rejected claims that the third-country nationals would be “skilled,” arguing that many skilled Guyanese remain unemployed and accused the government of failing to prioritise the development of local human resources.
Additionally, the party warned that Guyana’s infrastructure is already under significant strain. “Guyana accepted thousands of Venezuelan refugees, placing added pressure on hospitals, schools, housing, and other essential services. There has been no explanation of how these systems will cope with any additional influx,” WIN said.
The party made it clear that it does not support any agreement with the U.S. on accepting third-country nationals unless the government provides full disclosure, ensures parliamentary oversight, and presents a clear plan that prioritises the well-being of Guyanese citizens.
Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and APNU Chairman, Aubrey Norton
Moreover, Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and APNU Chairman, Aubrey Norton during an interview with News Source said government must halt all discussions with the US until national stakeholders are consulted and a migration policy is in place along with requisite systems to support such a movement.
Norton also expressed concern that the Government has advanced discussions without first holding consultations. He told News Source that at this stage the PNCR is not “disposed” to supporting the proposed arrangement but is willing to engage in meaningful consultation to ensure that there is clear policy in place.
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