THE recent announcement of United States sanctions against three Guyanese has sent ripples throughout Guyana.
Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo’s commitment to a thorough investigation underscores the government’s resolve to address this serious matter with the gravity it warrants.
At his weekly press conference, Dr. Jagdeo emphasised that the government must be deliberate and serious as it navigates such issues.
This approach reflects a balanced stance: lawbreakers will face the full brunt of the law, but they are also entitled to due process. This commitment to fairness and justice is vital for maintaining public trust and upholding the rule of law.
The US Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has sanctioned three Guyanese citizens and several entities, citing serious allegations including tax evasion, illegal export of gold, and bribery.
The investigation, as explained by US Ambassador to Guyana, Nicole Theriot, was extensive and thorough, spanning over two and a half years. The high bar for such sanctions underscores their gravity, reserved for gross levels of corruption and human rights abuses.
Dr Jagdeo’s response has been proactive. The government has reached out to US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for detailed information about the officials and transactions involved. This collaborative stance with US authorities is commendable and crucial for a transparent resolution. The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has also requested comprehensive data on bank accounts and transactions dating back to 2015, signalling a deep dive into the matter.
The government’s position, as stated by Dr Jagdeo, aligns with its manifesto promises of fighting corruption and upholding integrity. The collaboration with the US on mutual interests, including respect for the rule of law, further strengthens Guyana’s commitment to global standards of governance.
Ambassador Theriot’s assurance that the investigation was meticulously conducted by various US agencies, and her encouragement for information sharing with the Guyana government, highlights the robust nature of the probe. The sanctions were not imposed lightly, and the evidence gathered was substantial and compelling.
The allegations against the sanctioned individuals are grave. The Mohameds, accused of tax evasion exceeding US$50 million, under declaration, illegal gold export, and bribery, represent a significant breach of legal and ethical standards.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, Mae Thomas, is also implicated in using her office for corrupt activities linked to the Mohamed family.
The Guyanese government’s response to the US sanctions should be seen as a reaffirmation of its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
The planned investigation, collaboration with US authorities, and efforts to gather comprehensive data are steps in the right direction.
The government must ensure that justice is served, and that due process is upheld, reinforcing the principles of fairness and accountability that are essential for a just society. This situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against corruption and the need for relentless vigilance in safeguarding the nation’s integrity.
