By: Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News|
The Leader of the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP), Simona Brooms, has joined a growing chorus of political figures calling for the removal and investigation of Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues, amid mounting questions over her declared assets.
Brooms has accused the minister of what she described as placing her “hands deep in the cookie jar,” a reference to Guyana’s public purse, and argued that the scale of Rodrigues’ assets raises serious concerns about transparency and accountability in public office.
Speaking on the matter, Brooms said it would be virtually impossible, based on ministerial earnings alone, for a junior minister to finance the purchase of a US$540,000 property in the United States. At current exchange rates, she noted, the overseas property is valued at approximately G$113 million.
According to official government salary scales cited by Brooms, a junior minister earns a net monthly salary of about G$168,214. She noted that this would amount to estimated net earnings of approximately G$96.5 million over a five-year period, before accounting for personal living expenses. In her view, the figures raise legitimate questions about how such an acquisition could be afforded.
Brooms questioned the source of funds for the overseas property purchase and called for a clear, verifiable paper trail to explain how the money was obtained. She argued that, given the circumstances, Minister Rodrigues should step aside to allow for a full and impartial investigation.
In addition to the U.S. property, the ALP leader said the minister is also alleged to own several multi-million-dollar properties in Guyana, as well as a fleet of high-value vehicles. She maintained that these claims further intensify public concern and underscore the need for full disclosure.
“The Guyanese people deserve clear and verifiable answers,” Brooms said, adding that trust in public office depends on openness and accountability.
As part of its position, the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity is calling on Minister Rodrigues to publicly account for the full source of funds used in acquiring the overseas property and other major assets. The party is also demanding the release of a complete and verifiable paper trail, including mortgage instruments, loan agreements, repayment schedules, and declared assets.
Additionally, the ALP is urging the minister to confirm full compliance with all statutory disclosure requirements, including filings with the Integrity Commission, and to submit the transactions to an independent review to remove any perception of conflict of interest or undue influence.
The controversy continues to generate political debate, with calls for transparency intensifying as scrutiny surrounding the minister’s assets deepens.
