Jagdeo seeks clarification, meeting with President on GECOM’s Chair

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo has written to President David Granger asking him to clarify his interpretation of Article 161 of the Constitution that relates to selection of a chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

Jagdeo in a letter today (Tuesday, January 10, 2017) not only requests clarification but says it is the Opposition Leader’s “view that an urgent meeting will immeasurably assist in reconciling any differences of opinion which may exist on this issue.”

Yesterday, Mr Granger wrote to the Opposition Leader informing him of his decision on the initial list of nominees, which was deemed unacceptable and asked him to submit a second list.

Jagdeo, noting media reports from January 8,last on the President’s interpretation of Article says it is his obligation “to inform Your Excellency that my interpretation of Article 161(2) is different, in so far as, it also provides for, in addition to the category of persons to whom you  have referred, “or any other fit and proper person.”

President Granger on Sunday indicated his favour for a former or sitting Judge, based on the first part of Article 161 (2) to become the next chair of GECOM.

GECOM’s last Chairman was Dr Steve Surujbally, a veterinarian.