The Ministry of the Presidency says that it has taken note of the “hooliganism and thuggery” displayed by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and its supporters yesterday outside and inside the Pegasus Hotel where President David Granger was delivering remarks at a business luncheon.
The ministry, in a statement this morning, noted, “The lawlessness exhibited is not akin to a democratic political protest, but rather was a display of gross disrespect for the President, his Office, the Government and the occasion that was being held at the time.”
Further to that, the Ministry stated that while peaceful and “civilised” protest action is common in any democracy, it becomes a sign of worry when a Presidential Candidate and a former President seek to incite violence against the sitting Head of State and Ministers of the Government during the execution of their official duties.”
The ministry said that events of yesterday go against Guyana social cohesion agenda and serve as a reminder that democracy must be safeguarded.
“Holding the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings hostage in her vehicle for over half an hour and blocking the smooth ingress of Minister of Public Infrastructure, Mr. David Patterson, all while hurling threatening and foul remarks, are entirely unacceptable and should also be condemned by all right-thinking Guyanese,” the statement read.
Government sought to assure that every lawful measure will be taken to guarantee the safety of Ministers of Government and to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the country.
“The Opposition’s undemocratic behaviour and its continuous threats to peace and stability, has no place in this society and will not be tolerated.”
