We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) leader Azruddin Mohamed was formally elected Leader of the Opposition in Guyana’s 13th Parliament on Monday, January 26, 2026, during a sitting of the National Assembly at Parliament Buildings.
Mohamed was elected without opposition after being nominated by WIN Member of Parliament Gobin Harbhajan and seconded by Tabitha Sarabo-Halley. The Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), led by Amanza Walton-Desir and holding one parliamentary seat, voted in support of Mohamed.
The election took place at approximately 10 a.m. and concluded within minutes.
The A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), led by People’s National Congress (PNC) chairman Terrence Campbell and holding 12 seats, exited the chamber after nominations closed and did not participate in the vote.
Following the election, Mohamed told journalists that the process was smooth and that he was ready to serve in the role.
“The process was very smooth. No hiccups. No delay. In less than five minutes, I was elected leader of the opposition, ready to serve the people of this country,” he said.
Campbell later said APNU looked forward to improving collaboration with WIN, noting that relations between the two opposition groupings had previously been strained. He said APNU’s decision not to nominate a candidate was intended to signal interest in cooperation going forward.
Campbell also indicated that APNU would work with WIN on matters related to electoral reform, including the use of digital biometrics ahead of the next general elections, which are due in five years. He said discussions would be needed regarding representation on the seven-member Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
Mohamed publicly thanked Walton-Desir for FGM’s support. Walton-Desir said electoral reform remains a priority, including issues related to citizenship and voting rights for Commonwealth nationals.
The election follows weeks of delays during which Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir declined to convene a sitting for the election of an Opposition Leader. Nadir had cited concerns related to Mohamed’s legal status, as he is facing extradition to the United States on fraud and money laundering charges.
Attorney General Anil Nandlall had also publicly opposed Mohamed’s appointment in statements made prior to Monday’s sitting.
Mohamed has denied the allegations against him. The charges relate to alleged conduct between 2017 and 2024.
During Monday’s sitting, independent media outlets were not allowed inside the National Assembly, while state-owned National Communications Network (NCN) was granted access. Supporters gathered near Parliament Buildings were later asked by police to disperse.
Mohamed’s election clears the way for his participation in the presentation and debate of the 2026 National Budget later Monday. In brief remarks to the National Assembly, he said the opposition would engage in debate on government policies and support initiatives that benefit citizens.
Under Guyana’s Constitution, there is no character qualification required for the position of Leader of the Opposition.
 leader Azruddin Mohamed was formally elected Leader of the Opposition in Guyana’s 13th Parliament on Monday.){kind=link}