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Ar GUYANA | Discrimination Body Demands that Jagdeo retracts offensive statement against M.P. Cathy Hughes
GUYANA | Discrimination Body Demands that Jagdeo retracts offensive statement against M.P. Cathy Hughes
GEORGETOWN, Guyana, November 24, 2023 - The Institute For Action Against Discrimination (IFFAD) in a statement issued today “strong condemns” Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo verbal attack on Alliance For Change (AFC) Chairperson and Member of Parliament, Cathy Hughes.
Jagdeo, at his press conference on Thursday, called Hughes “a low life.” According to the dictionary a “low life” is a disreputable person who is not considered to be respectable in character or appearance.
IFAAD, in the statement signed by its Vice Chairman/Communication Officer, former Mayor Pt. Ubraj Narine, says “such offensive language not only undermines the democratic principles of respect and dignity but also perpetuates a culture of discrimination and divisiveness.”
According to the organisation Hughes, is a dedicated public servant, who has tirelessly served her constituents and has made invaluable contributions towards the betterment of Guyana. Going further, the organisation in condemning Jagdeo for stooping to such reprehensible level has called on him to publicly retract the offensive comments and offer sincere apology to Hughes.
“IFAAD firmly believes that all individuals, regardless of their gender, race, religion, political affiliation, or any other characteristic, should be treated with respect. Discrimination, in any form, erodes social cohesion and hinders progress towards an inclusive society.”
The following is the full text of the Institute's statement :
THE INSTITUTE FOR ACTION AGAINST DISCRIMINATION CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON HON. CATHERINE A. HUGHES BY VICE PRESIDENT BHARRAT JAGDEO
The Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD) strongly condemns the recent derogatory remarks made by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo towards Honourable Catherine A. Hughes, a distinguished member of Parliament. Such offensive language not only undermines the democratic principles of respect and dignity but also perpetuates a culture of discrimination and divisiveness.
Honourable Catherine A. Hughes, a dedicated public servant, has tirelessly served her constituents and has made invaluable contributions towards the betterment of our society. It is both distressing and unacceptable to witness Vice President Jagdeo stoop to such reprehensible levels, belittling an esteemed Member of Parliament with derogatory comments. Furthermore, such behaviour sets a detrimental precedent to disrespect our women in society and undermines the spirit of unity and cooperation within our democratic institution.
IFAAD firmly believes that all individuals, regardless of their gender, race, religion, political affiliation, or any other characteristic, should be treated with respect. Discrimination, in any form, erodes social cohesion and hinders progress towards an inclusive society.
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s derogatory remarks, labelling Honourable Catherine A. Hughes as a “low life” is an affront to the values we hold dear as a society. It is disheartening to witness such behaviour from a prominent political figure who should be setting an example for others. IFAAD calls upon Vice President Jagdeo to publicly retract his offensive comments and offer a sincere apology to Honourable Catherine A. Hughes.
IFAAD remains committed to advocating for equality, justice, and respect for all individuals within our society. We strongly urge all political leaders to condemn such discriminatory behaviour and work towards fostering an environment of dignity, understanding, and collaboration.
As an organisation dedicated to combating discrimination, the IFAAD extends its full support to Honourable Catherine A. Hughes during this challenging time. We stand firmly against any form of discrimination and will continue to work towards building a society that values and respects the contributions of every citizen.
Pt. Ubraj Narine
Vice Chairman/Communication Officer