Political Activist Melly Mel Admits to Submitting Human Rights Complaints to the United Nations

In a recent development, Guyanese activist Melissa Atwell, widely known as “Melly Mel,” has acknowledged her involvement in submitting complaints to the United Nations regarding alleged human rights violations in Guyana. This admission adds another layer to the ongoing debate surrounding human rights issues in the country.

Atwell’s acknowledgment came to light through a video posted on her Facebook page under the handle Melly Mel on March 24, 2024. In the video, she not only discussed her filing of a transnational complaint with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) against the Government of Guyana but also revealed her submission of complaints to the United Nations.

The complaints to the United Nations, as disclosed by Atwell, shed light on various alleged human rights abuses within Guyana. Her complaints focus on the alleged weaponizing of the 2018 cybercrime act to silence and bully government critics like herself and this is believed to be joining other reports of torture, excessive use of force by law enforcement agencies, including incidents involving minors, and violations of the rights of individuals deprived of liberty.

Atwell’s decision to escalate her activism by engaging international bodies like the United Nations stems from cybercrime related offenses she is expected to be charged with and according to her, reflects a growing trend among activists critical of the government.

Her actions have sparked mixed reactions within the Guyanese community. While some commend her courage and determination to hold authorities accountable for human rights violations, others criticize her approach, citing concerns about potential repercussions for the country’s overall reputation and stability in the eyes of the international community. A stain that will remain even if the Government changes.

During day two of the 140th Session of the Human Rights Committee, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Gail Teixeira faced a number of questions regarding human rights issues where French committee Member Hélène Tigroudja accused her of focusing more on blaming the previous government and discrediting allegations rather than answering questions posed to her.

A forthcoming report from the committee is expected to address the raised allegations and explore their broader implications for human rights advocacy in the country..