The 2020 Elections Fraud case continued this morning as former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) elections agent Anieshaw Mohamed was cross-examined in the witness box before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty.
Mohamed was questioned by attorneys-at-law Nigel Hughes and Ronald J. Daniels. Hughes asked Mohamed about the basis of her appointment as head of the Guyana Learning Channel, querying whether she was aware of anyone else being offered the position. Mohamed responded that she was not aware.
The courtroom saw objections from the prosecution as Daniels asked Mohamed whether she was related to Minister of Education, Hon. Priya Manickchand.
The question prompted strong objections from Special Prosecutor K.C. Dharshan Ramdhani, who described it as “scandalous” and questioned its relevance. In response, Magistrate McGusty instructed Daniels to rephrase his question.
Daniels went on to ask Mohamed whether she believed Guyana to be a democratic state. Mohamed responded, “In its current state, yes.” This prompted Daniels to suggest that she meant in its current state under the governance of the PPP/C. Mohamed clarified that she believes democracy was restored after the recount of the 2020 elections.
Daniels continued his cross-examination by asking whether Mohamed believed in Guyana’s justice system, a question that also drew strong objections from prosecutor Ramdhani, who argued it was not relevant to the case. The prosecution further raised concerns that the line of questioning could lead witnesses into expressing opinions.
Daniels also asked Mohamed whether she had made a social media post the previous day calling for the defendants in the matter to be held accountable and convicted, a question that appeared to surprise the witness.
Magistrate McGusty, noting the delay in her response, urged her to answer. Mohamed denied making such a post.
The morning session ended at 11:30 a.m.
