The APNU Coalition joins in the public outrage over the court’s decision to remand Daniel Wharton, known as “Baby Skello,” to prison on charges of blasphemous libel. In the interest of justice and democracy, we call for his immediate release.

The remand of Mr Wharton comes at a time when the desperate PPP government is increasingly using repressive tactics to stifle the fundamental freedoms of expression, conscience, association, and peaceful assembly of citizens here and abroad. The government has, for instance, invoked anti-terrorism provisions to deal with common criminal offences, such as looting. It has attempted to silence overseas-based social media critics. It continues to intimidate its political opponents at home. It persists in attacking the free press.

The APNU Coalition is therefore not impressed by the crocodile tears shed by Minister Manickchand and a few other PPP leaders over the court’s decision to remand Baby Skello. If they were genuinely concerned, as they claimed, let them be consistent and advocate within their own government to stop its repeated violations of human and democratic rights of citizens.

Let us be clear. We do not condone or encourage acts or expressions that willfully offend or insult any group of Guyanese based on their religious beliefs. Mr Wharton, we understand, has since apologised. The decision to remand him to prison is, in any case, disproportionate and threatens our basic freedoms. Guyanese must continue to raise their voices in condemnation. Release Baby Skello now!