A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) parliamentarian Juretha Fernandes has turned the controversy surrounding a photograph of former opposition supporters appearing with the governing People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) into a broader indictment of what she described as the Government’s use of economic vulnerability to extract political loyalty.

In a lengthy statement posted on social media, Fernandes said the photograph—circulating with individuals identified as former PNC/APNU supporters and current councillors—should not be viewed simply through the lens of political defections. She argued that the more troubling question is whether Guyanese are truly free to make political choices when access to economic opportunities and state resources can, in her view, become tied to political allegiance.

Fernandes acknowledged the anger among some opposition supporters, particularly because several of those now associated with the PPP/C had previously occupied leadership positions and had urged young people to reject the governing party.