PNCR Executive Member Denies Advising on FARA Implications Amid Internal Dispute

Amanza Walton-Desir, an executive member of the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR), has firmly denied claims that she advised the party's Central Executive Committee (CEC) that the North American Region's (NAR) work in the United States would face serious implications under the United States Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA).

This denial directly contradicts statements made by Sherwood Lowe, the PNCR Public Relations Director, who asserted that Walton-Desir had informed the CEC of potential FARA implications. Walton-Desir's denial, issued on May 26, 2024, aims to clarify the party's stance amid ongoing concerns about compliance with FARA.

In a memorandum addressed to the CEC and the PNCR's NAR Executive, Walton-Desir emphasized that she had consistently warned the party about the risks associated with FARA. She stated, "Colleagues, as you are aware nothing could be further from the truth. You will recall that meeting after meeting, much to the annoyance of some members of the CEC, I warned that we were taking the incorrect approach to the NAR issue."

Why this matters: This controversy highlights the importance of transparency and compliance with international laws for political organizations operating across borders. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences, damage to reputation, and erosion of trust among members and supporters.

Walton-Desir further elaborated that she had repeatedly explained the FARA regime and its implications for PNCR members and supporters in the US. She implored the party not to place them in jeopardy. "Time and again, I warned against the Party's approach to the NAR. In fact, I explained, ad nauseum, the FARA regime and its implications for our members and supporters who live in the USA and begged us not to place them in jeopardy," she noted.

The controversy arose after the PNCR decided to sever ties with its North American Region (NAR) following alleged non-compliance with instructions and directions from the central leadership. Ellen Tappin, Chair of NAR Inc., had warned that PNCR's CEC members could face jail time and fines in the US if they failed to register under FARA.

Adding to the complexity, Walton-Desir disclosed that PNCR Leader Aubrey Norton reported during an April 24, 2024, CEC meeting that he had sought legal advice and was informed that FARA was not an issue. However, Norton did not reveal the identity of the attorney who provided this advice.

Walton-Desir expressed her dismay at Lowe's public statements and questioned his motives for discussing internal party matters with the media. She challenged Lowe to retract his "inaccurate statements" within 48 hours, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and her commitment to protecting her integrity.

PNCR faces internal dispute, with implications of FARA on its North American operations remaining a critical issue. The party's leadership must address these concerns transparently to ensure compliance with US laws and safeguard the interests of its members and supporters.

This ongoing controversy highlights the challenges political organizations face when operating across international borders, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and legal compliance in maintaining organizational integrity and protecting members' rights.

Key Takeaways

• Amanza Walton-Desir denies advising PNCR's CEC about FARA implications.
• Walton-Desir claims she warned the party about FARA risks, contradicting Sherwood Lowe's statement.
• FARA non-compliance could lead to legal consequences, reputation damage, and erosion of trust.
• PNCR severed ties with its North American Region (NAR) due to alleged non-compliance with central leadership.
• Walton-Desir challenges Lowe to retract his statement, demanding transparency and integrity.