Guyana Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo dismisses cancer rumours

Guyana Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has firmly dismissed circulating claims that he is suffering from prostate or throat cancer, describing the rumours as false and politically motivated.

“I’m not diagnosed with cancer. I’m not sick, and it’s not Delip speaking here; Bharrat Jagdeo (is),” the vice president said, responding to a claim circulating on Facebook that an individual named Delip had been paid to impersonate him.

Jagdeo, who is known for his weekly three- to four-hour press briefings, said speculation about his health intensified following his November 6, 2026, press conference. Addressing the issue directly at a news conference on Thursday, he reiterated that there is no medical basis to the claims.

“I am not ill, I have not been diagnosed with cancer,” he told reporters.

The vice president said the rumours were being fueled by the political opposition and elements within society seeking to distract the public from the government’s work and achievements. He expressed concern about the spread of misinformation, warning that such claims can unnecessarily alarm the public and undermine trust.

Jagdeo said his work schedule remains unchanged and that he continues to play a central role in advancing the government’s agenda, including supporting initiatives announced by President Irfaan Ali aimed at improving the lives of Guyanese.

President Ali has previously publicly credited Jagdeo with playing a significant role in the country’s modern development, including during the 2025 general election campaign and again at a recent bridge commissioning. On those occasions, Ali described the vice president as his “confidante.”

Jagdeo reaffirmed his commitment to public service and said he remains fully engaged in the administration’s efforts to drive national growth and prosperity.