GEORGETOWN, Guyana — President Irfaan Ali on Monday insisted that the ongoing case involving businessman Azruddin Mohamed and his family is entirely a legal matter, rejecting claims of political involvement or influence.
Speaking during a live-streamed interview, Ali said the matter originated long before his administration took office and stemmed from foreign investigations, including those by United States authorities.
“This is not about politics; this is about the law taking its course,” Ali said, noting that the allegations — including gold smuggling and money laundering — had been the subject of international reporting prior to 2020.
Ali stressed that Guyana responded immediately to sanctions imposed by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), consistent with its legal obligations and international partnerships.
He also dismissed suggestions from opposition figures and sections of civil society that the extradition process or Parliament’s schedule had been manipulated for political benefit, calling such claims misinformation.
“The rule of law is paramount, and our responsibility is to uphold it, regardless of who is involved,” Ali said, adding that Guyana remains committed to cooperation with global law-enforcement agencies and safeguarding the country’s reputation.
As Guyana’s economic profile rises globally, Ali said adherence to due process and transparent legal mechanisms is essential for maintaining international trust and investor confidence.