Despite being unable to agree on the interpretation of Article 161 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana which deals with the appointment of a Commissioner of the Elections body, the Opposition Leader has agreed to submit a second list of nominees for the position.
In a statement on Tuesday night, the PPP noted that “notwithstanding and in the interest of moving the process forward, today, the Leader of the Opposition wrote to the President requesting some additional clarifications and informed him that six (6) names will be submitted to him shortly in accordance with Article 161 (2) of the Constitution.”
Attorney General, Basil Williams and PPP members Anil Nandlall and Priya Manikchand recently concluded engagements on the topic, however, this was deemed “futile.”
According to the Opposition, the Constitution does not accord any preference whatsoever to former Judges and person qualify to hold the position of Judges OR, any other fit and proper persons.
The PPP expressed its view that persons from either of the categories are equally qualified for the position of Chairman of the GECOM.
During his farewell Press Conference today, Former Chair of GECOM, Steve Surujbally said “if you can get fit and proper, together with judge, and legal, then you have won. That’s the best person ever.”
