Sanctions, solidarity – and the price to pay

Dear Editor,
Social media and the press went ablaze over the weekend with the news of Odessa Primus’s denial of entry into the US — and her return, which quickly became a spectacle.
Ms. Primus told the media that upon arrival at JFK on Friday, she was informed that she had been denied entry and was given the option to allow cancellation of her visa and have her application to enter be withdrawn — an option she ultimately accepted.
A local media house reported that Ms. Primus believes this denial is linked to her public support and affiliation with OFAC- sanctioned billionaire Azruddin Mohamed.
Mohamed, who has now openly expressed political aspirations, was publicly hailed by Odessa as her brother. Moreover, when GRA agents descended upon the Mohameds’ residence in relation to his tax evasion case, Ms. Primus was on the scene in full solidarity with the Mohameds. She had quipped, “I have a VISA!’ with a laugh. No doubt, she was unaware of the events yet in store.
Weeks ago, I weighed in on the realities of associating with an OFAC-sanctioned individual or candidate. The Mohameds led a coordinated response amounting to nothing more than a tantrum of evasions. For the benefit of us all, let us revisit the original OFAC press release to avoid further “gross misunderstanding”.
The OFAC sanctions, under the Global Magnitsky Act, clamp down on transactions with financial institutions, yes, but also “other persons” who engage in “activities with the sanctioned entities” and will “expose themselves to sanctions” or “enforcement action”.
“Activities” being “any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person”. What is denial of entry into the US if not a means of enforcement action?
The Mohameds were very swift in their attempt to malign my character; yet, when asked very basic and direct questions about the sanctioned offences, it appeared a cat had grabbed their collective tongues.
Ms Primus is a public figure, known both as a beloved comedienne and political activist. It is truly unfortunate that she has become embroiled in all of this. The notion being peddled that her denial and subsequent return wasn’t newsworthy is simply political and prejudicial contortion.
Growing up, I learnt from my parents never to kick someone when they’re down. As such, I won’t condone nor tolerate any attempts to mock Odessa. This shouldn’t be a moment of ridicule — but rather a teachable one.
Contagion by Association. A harsh but simple reality.
Veritas vincit. Truth Conquers.

Yours faithfully,
Nikhil Sankar