Kaieteur News Reports : Attorney-at-law and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) candidate, Dr. Dexter Todd, has publicly defended his professional integrity in response to criticisms from the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), which he claims labeled him a “mediocre lawyer.”
In his first political address at an APNU public meeting on Saturday, Dr. Todd, a newcomer to the political arena, addressed issues of injustice, victimization, and political retaliation. He recalled a personal attack by Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, who referred to him as a “mediocre lawyer” during a recent press conference. Todd suggested this insult was a reaction to his legal challenges against the government, particularly his involvement in the case of 11-year-old Adriana Younge.
“One man called me a mediocre lawyer. I dare the PPP/C to bring the qualifications of any of their members, from the President down,” Todd stated. He expressed concern about the political environment in Guyana, saying, “If you are not politically correct with your message, then you are an enemy of the government. It was an insult.”
Highlighting his extensive international legal experience, Todd noted, “I coordinate forensics for the entire continent of Africa, over 54 countries. I sit with ministers of government and police commissioners, bringing in experts in legal forensic research.” He attributed the PPP/C’s disdain for him to his willingness to speak the truth.
Dr. Todd warned of a growing trend in Guyana where professionals are targeted for expressing independent views. “The minute you come back qualified, you’re expected to shut your mouth unless you’re with them. Otherwise, they’re coming after you,” he said. He assured supporters that such suppression would not occur under an APNU-led government, emphasizing the importance of respecting professionals and their contributions to the country.
He accused the PPP/C of systematically undermining professionals, claiming their broader motive is to establish a one-party state. “They don’t respect professionals. They seek to undermine professionals in this country because their motive is to create a one-party state,” he declared.
Dr. Todd also criticized the PPP/C for what he described as the selective application of the law, citing the case of Local Government Minister Nigel Dharamlall, who was accused of raping a 16-year-old Amerindian girl. “There will be no one Guyana when you are accused of such an offense and you have to spend 72 hours in the lock-ups without bail, while others are protected,” he said.
Concluding his address, Dr. Todd reaffirmed the values of the APNU and its constituent, the People’s National Congress (PNC), asserting their commitment to fairness, equality, and justice. “This is not a party of empty promises. This is a party that understands the needs of the people of this country,” he stated.
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