Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo addressed recent protests concerning the detention of Melissa Atwell by U.S. immigration authorities. He urged that protests should be directed at the U.S. government, clarifying that the matter lies beyond Guyana’s control. Dr. Jagdeo emphasized the PPP’s lack of influence over U.S. immigration policies and confirmed that Atwell’s status is ultimately determined by U.S. authorities.
On Thursday, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo responded to ongoing protests regarding the detention of social media activist Melissa Atwell by U.S. immigration authorities. He urged opposition figures to direct their grievances towards the U.S. government rather than the Guyanese administration, arguing that the arrest falls under U.S. jurisdiction, not the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).
During his remarks regarding the protests at the Square of the Revolution, Dr. Jagdeo recognized the right to protest but underscored that claims of PPP influence over U.S. immigration policy are misguided. He emphasized, “We are not going to get sucked into a debate around Ms. Atwell,” indicating that the protestors lacked proper direction in their opposition.
Dr. Jagdeo clarified that the decision regarding Atwell’s status ultimately rests with U.S. authorities. He reiterated, “If there is a problem with U.S. immigration policies, the opposition should protest directly to the U.S. government.” This responsibility, he stated, does not lie with the Guyanese government, reaffirming that the PPP should not be implicated in U.S. policy matters.
Delving deeper into Atwell’s situation, he mentioned that the government has no control over her statements, whether in the U.S. or in Guyana. He acknowledged her claim to U.S. citizenship, noting that this circumstance, if true, would be unusual. Should she not be a U.S. citizen, further complications may arise.
Atwell is currently detained in Louisiana and is awaiting her next court appearance before a U.S. Immigration Judge on March 28, after a prior date was rescheduled. Her case continues to draw attention amidst discussions of immigration policies.
In conclusion, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has urged the Guyanese opposition to focus their protests on the U.S. government regarding Melissa Atwell’s detention rather than blaming the local administration. He emphasized that the situation is strictly under U.S. jurisdiction and that the PPP should not be associated with U.S. immigration policy decisions. Ultimately, the resolution of Atwell’s status remains solely within the authority of U.S. immigration officials.
Original Source: newsroom.gy
