In a clear and direct message, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has dismissed claims that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has any influence over U.S. immigration policies or the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This clarification comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the detention of social media personality Melissa Ann Atwell, known as “Melly Mel,” by U.S. immigration authorities.

Jagdeo emphasized that the PPP does not control ICE and that any issues with U.S. immigration policies should be directed at the U.S. government, not the Guyanese administration. He pointed out that the opposition’s protests against the PPP over Atwell’s detention are misguided, as the matter falls squarely within the jurisdiction of the U.S. government.

Atwell, who was arrested by U.S. Homeland Security officials and is currently in ICE custody in Louisiana, is scheduled to appear before a U.S. Immigration Judge on March 28. Her detention has sparked protests in Guyana, with opposition figures claiming that the PPP might have played a role in her arrest. However, Jagdeo and other government officials have consistently denied these allegations, stating that the PPP has no authority over U.S. immigration matters.

Jagdeo encouraged opposition leaders to lobby U.S. congressmen if they have concerns about Atwell’s situation, rather than targeting the PPP. He also noted that whether Atwell remains in the U.S. or is deported is entirely a decision for the U.S. government to make. The Vice President reiterated that the PPP does not control what Atwell says, whether she is in the U.S. or Guyana, and that her return to Guyana would be welcomed if she is deported.

This situation highlights the complexities of international relations and the limits of national influence over foreign governments’ actions. It also underscores the political tensions in Guyana, where opposition parties continue to question the PPP’s role in various issues, despite clear denials from government officials.