Following the circulation of a leaked interview between journalist Travis Chase and gold miner Azeem Baksh, which contained allegations about the involvement of top political officials in illicit dealings, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat revealed today that he will be taking legal action against Baksh.
The leaked interview, which went viral on Tuesday, featured Baksh making a series of allegations about the flow of financial benefits from Guyana’s gold industry to certain stakeholders. Among the claims was that the minister allegedly collected drawbacks from contracts that were skewed in favour of a popular construction company.
In a brief interview, Minister Bharrat told Guyana Standard, “This footage contained statements that unjustly impugn my character and reputation. I want to categorically affirm that these claims regarding my involvement, connection to, or mere knowledge of shady dealings in the gold industry are entirely unfounded, malicious, and have no basis in fact.”
He added, “Given the serious nature of these false allegations, I am compelled to take decisive legal action to defend my name and to ensure that any doubts about my integrity are thoroughly addressed and dismissed.”
The minister also clearly stated that he has always conducted himself with the utmost “integrity, transparency, and accountability in service of the people of Guyana,” adding that he remains “dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity…”
It should be noted that Baksh has since recanted his statements, particularly those concerning President Dr. Irfaan Ali and his mother. He also noted that the interview with Chase was conducted on March 25, 2025, as he believed his life was in danger at the time.
Baksh has since admitted to being misled by certain parties and disclosed that he will be taking legal action against Chase. The gold miner alleged that the journalist had signed a Non-Disclosure Agreement. During the interview, Chase also gave his word to only release the interview if Baksh so instructed or if he was found dead.
