-weighs legal action

MINISTER Within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues, has strongly refuted allegations that she was “given” a property in the United States in exchange for land in Guyana, dismissing the claim as baseless and defamatory.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Minister Rodrigues addressed what she described as a “complete fabrication” made by a “known miscreant.” She pointed out that the individual who posted the allegation was aware of its falsehood and quickly removed the claim within an hour of publishing it.
According to the Minister, she became aware of the accusation after receiving a forwarded message around 6 p.m. on the previous evening. The message reportedly contained the same allegations later posted online. Minister Rodrigues stated that she was also contacted by someone from the media, inquiring about her response to the claim. In her statement, she made it clear that she would not be intimidated or blackmailed.

Highlighting the legal principle that “those who assert must prove,” Minister Rodrigues criticized the individual responsible for spreading the allegations, accusing them of defaming and abusing public officials over the years. She noted that while some have pursued legal action, she has largely ignored the individual, whom she described as having no credibility or value.

“All of her attempts to threaten me, and to bait the public to send her information on me, have failed repeatedly,” Minister Rodrigues asserted. “Is it so difficult for her to believe there are actually people who work honestly? Or is this just about extortion?”
The Minister reaffirmed her commitment to her work in public service, emphasizing that her integrity and principles remain steadfast. She expressed confidence that the allegations would not diminish her dedication to improving the lives of Guyanese citizens.

While Rodrigues does not anticipate a change in the accuser’s conduct, she acknowledged the likelihood of continued attacks. However, she made it clear that she will not respond to every false claim. “There are far more important matters that require my attention. My work to improve the lives of every Guyanese, living in Guyana, continues unabated.”

Minister Rodrigues concluded her statement by revealing that she is consulting with her attorneys on the legal steps forward.
The matter has drawn attention to the broader issue of misinformation and public scrutiny faced by government officials. Whether legal action will be pursued remains to be seen.