Supporters rallied for Melissa Atwell-Holder’s release, claiming her arrest by US authorities was instigated by the Guyanese government due to her criticism. Leaders urged Guyanese in the US to lobby their representatives for her support, emphasizing that her activism should not lead to persecution. The movement reflects concerns over governmental overreach and the defense of free speech in Guyana.
In a rally at the Square of the Revolution, supporters demanded the release of Melissa Atwell-Holder, also known as Melly Mel, who is currently detained in the US. They believe her imprisonment is politically motivated, following criticism of the Guyanese government. Atwell-Holder was arrested at her New York home by the Department of Homeland Security and is now held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton addressed the rally, stating that Atwell-Holder’s only wrongdoing was exposing government corruption. He accused the Irfaan Ali administration of instigating her arrest and urged Guyanese in the US to lobby political representatives for her release. Norton emphasized that Atwell-Holder did not commit any crimes and called for family and friends of US residents to contact their senators and congresspeople.
Amanza Walton-Desir, an Opposition Member of Parliament, echoed Norton’s sentiments by asserting that the attack on Atwell-Holder equates to an attack on free speech. She accused President Ali and Vice President Jagdeo of orchestrating the activist’s detention and stated that the Guyanese people must unite against the erosion of democracy.
Norris Witter, President of the Guyana Trades Union Congress, referenced Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Odessa Primus, a close friend of Atwell-Holder, encouraged citizens to resist government oppression and reiterated the power of Atwell-Holder’s revelations about corruption.
Melisa Atwell-Holder is scheduled to appear before a US Immigration Judge in June, with a bond hearing potentially occurring beforehand. Supporters speculate that her arrest derives from complaints filed against her by the Guyanese government, which accused her of cyber crimes associated with her social media activism. A follow-up rally is planned for next Tuesday.
The rally for Melissa Atwell-Holder highlighted the perceived injustice of her detention and the belief that her arrest was politically motivated. Opposition leaders called for a unified effort among Guyanese in the US to advocate for her release. With the fear of further erosion of democracy in Guyana, supporters remain determined to amplify their voices against government oppression and corruption.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
