President Dr. Irfaan Ali has addressed accusations of victimization against businessman Azruddin Mohamed and his family, pointing out the irony of being blamed for both protecting and targeting them at different times. The remarks were made during a press conference on Tuesday amid growing scrutiny of the government’s actions against the Mohameds, who have faced U.S. sanctions for tax evasion and corruption.
President Ali recalled that upon assuming office, he had been questioned about whether his personal acquaintance with the Mohameds had led to special protection for them. “One of the first things that occurred when I came into office was my dear friend [journalist] Dennis Chabrol asking whether there was any special protection for the Mohameds because of my relationship,” Ali said. He emphasized that at the time, no evidence of wrongdoing had been provided by U.S. authorities, and he assured critics that appropriate action would be taken if evidence emerged.
The situation took a dramatic turn when U.S. sanctions were imposed on the Mohameds last year, accusing them of evading taxes and engaging in corrupt practices. Critics who had previously accused Ali of shielding the family quickly reversed their stance, now blaming his administration for their downfall. “The very people who were questioning whether I was protecting them are now accusing me of victimizing them,” Ali remarked, highlighting the shifting narratives.
Ali defended his government’s actions as being rooted in law and governance rather than political motives. He stated that his administration had requested additional information from U.S. authorities and acted accordingly once sufficient evidence was provided. Rejecting claims of blackmail or intimidation against Azruddin Mohamed, Ali said, “We are never involved in blackmail… We will win elections because we have worked hard and delivered on our promises.”
The controversy surrounding the Mohameds has intensified following recent enforcement actions by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), including attempts to seize luxury vehicles over unpaid taxes amounting to billions of Guyanese dollars. The Mohameds have accused the government of targeting them due to Azruddin Mohamed’s rumored political ambitions—a claim Ali and other officials have dismissed as baseless.
As investigations continue into allegations against the Mohameds, including potential links to past criminal activities, President Ali has reiterated his commitment to upholding the law without fear or favor. The unfolding drama underscores the complex interplay between politics, business interests, and governance in Guyana’s evolving landscape.
