MINISTER of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, recently made a direct appeal to all members of the public to understand that the right to a peaceful protest should not encourage people to incite violence.

Speaking following calls for nationwide protests following the remand of Leader of the Opposition Azruddin Mohamed, the minister emphasised that everyone has a right to express their opinions and to protest peacefully. She stressed that those rights must and will be respected.

However, the lines between peaceful protests and violence have become blurred as persons including Mohamed’s family members, recently gathered in groups on multiple occasions to oppose his remand.

Violence, incitement of violence, destruction of property, intimidation and attacks on other citizens are discouraged, with the minister warning that violators can face penalties for their disturbances.

The minister advised the public that Azruddin Mohamed’s matter is currently before the court and persons must desist from acting before decisions on his possible sentencing are made to avoid these penalties.

Mohamed’s remand followed charges under Guyana’s Cybercrime Act for allegedly obtaining and disclosing government surveillance footage without lawful authorisation.

As attorneys of Mr. Mohamed seek legal remedies, these proceedings are to take their course before public opinion is digested. Persons are urged to remain calm and to not allow themselves to be used or engage in criminal conduct, regardless of political differences.

“We are all Guyanese. We have a shared responsibility to protect the peace, safety and stability of our country,” Minister Waldron said.

The security services will continue to maintain law and order in Guyana and citizens will continue to have the right to a peaceful and respectful protest. Members of the public are advised that Mohamed is entitled to the presumption of innocence, as the charges are currently unresolved and that no person is above the law, regardless of social status.