AG Nandlall denounces US Congresswoman’s ‘one-sided’ remarks on Melly Mel’s detention

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall on Tuesday responded to U.S. Congresswoman Yvette Clarke who expressed views that Guyanese social media personality, Melissa Atwell will face “political persecution” if she returns to Guyana.

Nandlall questioned the basis for such claim, noting that the only persons with which Ms. Clarke communicated are known critics of the Government, Mark Benschop and Atwell.

“What is a travesty is the way she has concluded a particular matter and has arrived at a judgement call after hearing just one side…” he said, highlighting that the Government of Guyana was not afforded an opportunity to respond.

“Now that she chose that platform from which to speak raises eyebrows…[it] conveys a particular impression,” he added.

Atwell was detained in the U.S. on alleged immigration infractions, though details of the specific violations remain unclear.

Clarke, on a programme hosted by Guyanese political commentator Mark Benschop, said she heard from Atwell who is fearful of persecution if deported to Guyana. Deeming the situation “a travesty”, she reportedly framed Atwell’s case within a broader pattern of targeting individuals for their political stances.

Nandlall said while he has no issues with elected representatives speaking about the affairs of their country or their constituents, or the welfare of people within those areas, they must be equipped with the facts before extending that liberty elsewhere.

“Was she briefed on the hundreds if not thousands of Guyanese unconnected with the Government, particularly women whose characters and reputation and standing and careers have been irreparably damaged and destroyed by Atwell on her Facebook platform publishing the most ridiculing and…malicious falsehoods about innocent persons?” he questioned.

The AG also alleged that many others were extorted to stop Atwell from publishing certain content about their families.

Noting that Atwell published several posts critical of the Government without any interruption, Nandlall stated that that demonstrates “freedom of speech.”

“No court order was even sought to restrain her from publishing what she was publishing. Ms. Clarke did not take time to find out about those things but listened to one side and concluded that it was a ‘travesty’.”

The Attorney General added that it is his hope that this matter will be appropriately ventilated in due time.