Foreign powers say gov’t in breach of constitution, could freeze funding

The world’s most powerful governments Thursday said that by surpassing September 18 without an election the government is in breach of the constitution and that this “hinders” their ability to support Guyana’s development needs.

It is the strongest statement yet from the diplomatic community after the passage of the No Confidence motion and comes shortly after the Chairman of the Elections Commission indicated to the President that the elections could be held by the end of February next year.

The statement was issued by United States of America Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch, United Kingdom High Commissioner to Guyana Greg Quinn and the European Union Ambassador to Guyana Fernando Ponz Cantó.

See full statement below:

“The United States, United Kingdom and the European Union thank the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) for devising a proposed elections timeframe for conducting General and Regional Elections.

“However, we deeply regret that, by surpassing September 18, the Government is currently in breach of the Constitution following its failure to adhere to the decisions of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on 18 June and its subsequent orders.

“This situation comes at great cost to the people of Guyana. The prevailing political uncertainty undermines Guyanese institutions, compromises economic opportunities and delays development across all areas including infrastructure, education, health, and social services. It also hinders our ability to support Guyana’s development needs.

“We therefore call upon the President to set an elections date immediately in full compliance with Guyana’s constitution.”