PARAMARIBO/WASHINGTON – The Organization of American States (OAS) has forcefully denied recent allegations of corruption, financial mismanagement, and abuse of power within its ranks.
In a sharply worded statement issued by the General Secretariat, the accusations were labeled “false,” “misleading,” and “completely taken out of context.”
The OAS emphasized that, in an era dominated by misinformation and politically motivated narratives, it is imperative to push back against unfounded claims. The organization outlined its internal procedures and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and institutional accountability under the leadership of Secretary General Albert Ramdin.
According to the statement, the OAS has well-established mechanisms to investigate any credible complaints of wrongdoing, including the offices of the Ombudsperson and Inspector General, as well as a whistle-blower policy. “The picture being painted of dysfunction and chaos is simply not true,” the Secretariat said. “Operations are guided by strict procedures, legal mandates, and oversight from member states.”
A key focus of the allegations is Secretary General Ramdin’s recent international travel, which critics claim was excessive and wasteful. The OAS countered that these missions – to Antigua and Barbuda, France, Spain, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic – were essential to the organization's diplomatic agenda. “Such travel is routine for heads of multilateral institutions and complies fully with United Nations budget and travel guidelines,” the statement read.
The OAS also addressed specific rumors, including the claim that Ramdin approved a $25,000 limousine service. “No such expenditure exists in our records or has ever been approved,” the Secretariat stated. It further clarified that hotel arrangements during the Antigua and Barbuda summit were made by the host country, not by the Secretary General or the OAS.
Criticism also surfaced regarding office renovations and technology upgrades. The OAS responded that both initiatives are long-standing and necessary. “The modernization of our communication systems has been in discussion for years and is currently undergoing internal review,” the statement said. “It will be presented to member states for approval in due course.”
Regarding renovations at the historic OAS headquarters, the Secretariat said the work is long overdue and aims to improve efficiency. Temporary offices being used during construction come at no additional cost and have previously served the same purpose.
The OAS also detailed several early-term priorities under Secretary General Ramdin, including the leadership transition, staff restructuring, organization of the 55th General Assembly, and preparation of the 2026 budget. “Thanks to the dedication of our staff, all timelines have been met,” the Secretariat said. Claims about inflated salaries were dismissed as “wildly inaccurate.” According to the OAS, salaries reflect duties, responsibilities, and workload.
The Secretariat reiterated that Haiti remains a top strategic focus. “The crisis there touches every pillar of our mandate: democracy, human rights, security, and development,” the statement said. While Haiti remains the most urgent issue, other matters are being handled through “quiet diplomacy”—a style the current administration is deliberately reviving to navigate sensitive political situations effectively.
Secretary General Ramdin issued his own response, expressing deep frustration over what he described as a smear campaign. “It is deeply regrettable that disinformation—motivated by interests unknown—seeks to erode trust in a democratic institution committed to human rights, security, and development,” he said. “Every staffing and financial decision has been made with full transparency and accountability.”
The statement concluded with a warning about the broader consequences of misinformation. “The spread of baseless accusations damages public trust—not just in the OAS, but in democratic institutions across the region,” the Secretariat said. “Despite these attacks, the OAS will continue its mission with professionalism, integrity, and the support of its member states.”