Presidential Candidate Azruddin Mohamed Calls Police Probe ‘Political Persecution’
By Tiana Cole |HGP Nightly News.
Presidential candidate for the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, Azruddin Mohamed, spoke to the press on Thursday following his release from the Ruimveldt Police Station, where he was questioned over allegations of attempting to obstruct justice.
Mohamed’s detention stemmed from a police investigation into an incident involving WIN party activist Bradley “Doggy” Samson, who allegedly assaulted a woman on Tuesday. Police claim the woman was held against her will by armed security guards at Mohamed’s campaign office on the East Bank of Demerara.
The police further alleged that Mohamed instructed the woman not to pursue the matter and offered her $500,000 to remain silent. Mohamed has denied all allegations, insisting that his only contact with the woman was to apologize on behalf of himself and the party, reaffirming his stance against violence towards women.
“This is a clear case of political persecution,” Mohamed stated. “I hope the Carter Center and other observers are taking note.”
Mohamed recalled that on Wednesday night, three vanloads of police officers arrived at his Providence residence, but he was not home at the time. He later turned himself in on Thursday morning, accompanied by his attorneys.
Attorney Damian Da Silva argued that even if the allegations were factual, offering a settlement is not illegal, stating,
“It’s quite normal for parties to attempt to settle matters outside of court.”
Another attorney, Sandre John, emphasized that the allegation does not constitute a criminal offense, pointing out that Guyanese courts often encourage parties to resolve disputes amicably.
Adding to the controversy, police admitted they were unable to contact the complainant for several hours despite having allegedly obtained her statement. Multiple calls went unanswered, and she was not found at home when officers visited.
As of now, no charges have been filed against Mohamed. The matter remains under investigation.
