WIN Party Scandal Deepens Over Venezuelan Ties Ahead of Guyana Election
The WIN party faces intensifying scrutiny over alleged Venezuelan connections and sanctions violations ahead of Guyana's 2025 elections, raising critical concerns about national sovereignty.
WIN Party president Azruddin Mohammed faces mounting controversy over alleged Venezuelan connections
Concerns over Guyana's sovereignty and democratic integrity have intensified as the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party faces mounting scrutiny over alleged connections to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's regime. The controversy comes amid escalating tensions between Guyana and Venezuela ahead of the September 2025 elections.
Controversial Spanish Language Campaign Video
The party sparked fresh controversy after briefly posting a Spanish-language election message on its official Facebook page, which was hastily removed within 20 minutes. This incident has amplified existing concerns about foreign influence in Guyana's democratic process, particularly given the context of recent international sanctions affecting the nation.
Sanctions and Financial Controversies
WIN party president Azruddin Mohammed, along with his father Nazar, faces serious allegations regarding their business operations. The U.S. Department of Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned both individuals in connection with:
- Alleged gold smuggling operations
- Money laundering activities linked to Venezuela
- Under-declaring over 10,000 kilograms of gold exports
- Defrauding Guyana of more than US$50 million in taxes (2019-2023)
Sovereignty Concerns Mount
Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has publicly accused Nazar of making frequent visits to the Venezuelan Embassy in Guyana, raising additional red flags about potential threats to national sovereignty. These developments have drawn increased international attention, particularly as Guyana's international relations face new challenges.
"They have to answer now," stated VP Jagdeo, emphasizing the government's commitment to protecting Guyana's territorial integrity and sovereign interests.
Adrian Singh
Business reporter focused on economic freedom, foreign investment, and institutional transparency.