Jagdeo hauls Government over the coals for failed policies; promises to reverse all in 2020

By Stacy Carmichael-James

General Secretary of the Opposition People’s Progressive Party confident of a 2020 victory by his party said the fiscal policies implemented by the coalition Government that have negative effects on the mining sector would be reversed.

Jagdeo, speaking at a recent press conference criticized the Government for its unresponsiveness to the concerns of the mining community. He is contending that the policies will push small miners out of the sector and would encourage the continuation of smuggling, things his party endeavours to correct in a 2020 elections victory.

The fact that it is now one month since the miners have requested to meet with the Head of State was highlighted and criticized by the PPP General secretary. The Miners have threatened protest action if their concerns are not addressed by the Coalition Government, following a meeting with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association.

According to Jagdeo, the Government continues to make promises about implementing policies that will ensure social cohesion and job creation, but for the ordinary citizen, the reality on the ground is quite different.

Jagdeo also raised concerns about the President’s non-appointment of judges despite recommendations by the Judicial Service Commission. He expressed worry that this will create a gap in the judiciary.

Third -Term

The PPP General Secretary said his party has not discussed the third term but rather is focused on the party’s work.

Responding to questions posed by the media about him possibly being selected as the Presidential candidate come next elections, Jagdeo said when that time comes the best-suited candidate would be selected by the party.

The PPP General Secretary noted that it is up to the court to interpret the law.

The Appellate Court of Guyana last Wednesday, February 22, voted two to one that a Presidential term limit is unconstitutional.

The appeal follows a 2015 ruling by Former Acting Chief Justice, Ian Chang on the Cedric Richardson Constitutional challenge filed in February 2014. Mr. Richardson was contending that Act 17 of 2001, which made way for the two-thirds majority of the National Assembly to amend Article 90 of the Constitution, unconstitutionally curtails and restricts his sovereign and democratic rights and freedom as a qualified elector to elect a specific person to be President.