The Government Information Agency (GINA) quoted Persaud as saying that for "a former President (Hoyte) to allow himself to descend to such low depths and utter libellous and puerile statements, knowing fully well that these have no basis in the truth and reality, is disappointing".

Persaud claimed the statement was made by a "desperate politician seeking to salvage his dwindling political fortunes".

"The PNC/R leader seems increasingly unable to seriously debate national issues such as fighting crime and respect for the rule of law, housing, education, health care, investment and job creation and strengthening national unity", GINA reported Persaud as saying.

"He (Hoyte) has sadly resorted to infantile tantrums, which are harmful and unconstructive", Persaud said.

According to the official, Hoyte should produce evidence to substantiate his "lie" claim and if he cannot, he should retract the remarks and apologise to President Jagdeo and his ministers.