What about Mae Thomas
Jul 25, 2025
Dear Editor,
Kaieteur News – In recent weeks, the name Azruddin Mohamed has dominated headlines, social media, and political commentary—often framed within narratives of sanctions, alleged corruption, and undue enrichment. His association with the ruling elite and his visible wealth have made him an easy target. But one cannot help but notice a troubling double standard in the national discourse.
Why is it that while Azruddin is relentlessly scrutinized, vilified, and held up as a symbol of excess, Mae Thomas, a former Permanent Secretary and a senior public servant, who is also the subject of US sanctions, continues to operate with seeming impunity and minimal scrutiny?
The United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned both parties—yet only one has become the face of “corruption” in the public eye. Azruddin’s family businesses have been sanctioned for suspected illicit gold trading and money laundering, while Mae Thomas is alleged to have used her official position to improperly facilitate business transactions and obstruct legitimate processes. Yet, while Azruddin is paraded as the poster child of corruption, Ms. Thomas, a government insider, is barely mentioned.
The media, civil society, and even international observers seem disturbingly silent on her case. Shouldn’t public servants who misuse state office be subject to even greater scrutiny than private businessmen?
This disparity suggests that political proximity may be offering protection to some, while others are being used as convenient scapegoats to distract from deeper institutional rot. If we are serious about accountability, good governance, and restoring public trust, then we must apply the same standard across the board—regardless of whether the person is a businessman or a bureaucrat.
Selective outrage only erodes the credibility of those who champion transparency while turning a blind eye to the failings within their own political or professional circles.
Sincerely,
H. Singh
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