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1st – 8th August Foreign Statements

1st – 8th August Foreign Statements

Nicaragua sends fraternal embrace to H.E Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali

president-of-nicaragua-his-excellency-daniel-ortega-saavedra

August 6, 2020

President of Nicaragua, His Excellency Daniel Ortega Saavedra, has sent a fraternal embrace to His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on being elected President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

In a letter signed by President Ortega and Vice President and First Lady of Nicaragua, Rosario Murillo, the Guyanese Head of State was told he had the affection of the Nicaraguan people as well.

“From our always blessed and always free Nicaragua, receive our fraternal embrace, as well as the affection of all the Nicaraguans for the brotherly people of Guyana” President Ortega stated.

The Nicaraguan President described Dr. Ali’s ascension to office as a historic occasion and urged that both governments continued working in favour of peace and wellbeing of their people.

“The Government of Nicaragua wishes to express its unwavering will to continue strengthening the historic bonds of solidarity and cooperation that unite the two countries.” President Ortega expressed.

Nicaragua and Guyana established diplomatic ties in November 1981.

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Suriname’s President slated to attend President Irfaan Ali’s inauguration tomorrow

santokhi

August 7, 2020

Suriname’s President Chandrikapersad Santokhi will travel to Guyana tomorrow to attend the inauguration of President Irfaan Ali’s inauguration.

He will be accompanied by his wife and Foreign Affairs Minister Albert Ramdin.

Santokhi told The National Assembly that he will leave Saturday morning and return Sunday afternoon. In the context of good neighborly relations, the Head of State has considered accepting the invitation.

The Surinamese Head of State will also hold bilateral talks with Guyana and Caribbean leaders.

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Democracy survives in Guyana

Aug 05, 2020

Dear Editor,

We refer to the article in Kaieteur News August 3rd, 2020 “What Happened Should Never Happen Again in the World” by Freddie Kissoon.
The views expressed are fully endorsed by every defender of democracy in Guyana and in the diaspora. We accept that had it not been for the intervention of members of the diplomatic community, Caribbean heads of State and the International Organizations, Guyana would have been plunged into a lifetime of dictatorship.
However, as crucial and important a role the international community as well as many key members of the judiciary have played, kudos must be extended also to the many activist groups, individuals and news outlets whose combined and unrelenting efforts helped in maintaining the necessary attention and focus on what really was at stake; democracy. The totality of all the contributions allowed hope to overcome hopelessness.
One must not forget the contributions of those who have recently passed. The late Mr. Owen Arthur was mentioned but there was also the work the late Mr. Randy Depoo whose early petition of over 7000 signatures in support of democracy and a call for personal sanctions against known riggers was the first to be submitted to the US Embassy in Guyana. Unfortunately he was not around to see how the sanctions impacted the final outcome.
When a petition appeared on line asking for the recall of HC Lilian Chatterjee of Canada just for using the word “frivolous”, a counter petition online in support of her and other diplomats garnered over 3000 signatures. She must have felt vindicated when several courts including the court of Appeal opined that repetitive court actions were also vexatious and an abuse of the court process.
The daily newspapers in Guyana also played a key role by publishing many letters in support of democracy. Many groups and individuals submitted letters to the press which could not publish them. Thousands of volunteers from many countries also signed and shared several petitions, all helped in some way. Unlike others who are being paid and a few who should have been fired, those who should be singled out for special mention are the courageous individuals, who until the end of the recount process and at times braving the rainy weather, kept a 24/7 vigil on the containers in which the ballots were stored; And to those who spent countless hours from every corner of the globe organising and demanding action from governments in their countries of residence.
Then there were the myriad of video conferencing and interviews, all the advocacies which helped in shaping opinions and influencing key decisions.
Democracy Watch 2020 of the GTA in Ontario joined the efforts in mid March, by writing letters asking the Canadian Prime Minister and other world leaders to impose sanctions on the offenders who were trying to steal the election. The ad hoc apolitical group remained active throughout the struggle. An online petition by this group starting in mid July calling on GECOM to declare Dr. Ali President of Guyana, garnered over 200 signatures before it was MISSION ACCOMPLISHED.
Democracy is alive in Guyana through the steadfast commitment and hard work of all of the above .We hope it will be lasting. The group of volunteers at Democracy Watch 2020 is appreciative of the advice and guidance of retired lawyer and author Mr. Ramnarine Sahadeo. We thank him and all others who helped in the preservation of democracy on Guyana.
As Guyana seems poised for a liberated future where cohesion, inclusiveness and participation of the citizenry aided by good governance will hopefully be realized, Democracy Watch 2020 will remain vigilant. Best of luck to the new administration.
Yours truly,
S. Bernard; S. Alexander; N. Hanif; H. Ragnauth; K. Ramprashad; R. Persaud; N. Megnauth; R.M. Singh; Pandit B. Benimadhu

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State of Roraima looks forward to working with new Govt

governor-of-the-state-of-roraima-in-brazil-antonio-denarium

August 5, 2020

Governor of the State of Roraima in Brazil, Antonio Denarium has congratulated Dr Irfaan Ali on being elected President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

In a congratulatory message to President Ali on Monday, the Governor said: “This is a pivotal time for the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and your leadership will be paramount in realising the full potential of your country and its people.
“The future will, undoubtedly, bring many challenges and change is inevitable but, I have no doubt that this will have a positive and energising effect on both our countries and, in particular, to your neighbour, the state of Roraima.
The Governor said that the State of Roraima is keen to build on the already good relationship that exists between Brazil and Guyana.
“May God bless you, your Government, and the people of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana”.

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New PPP/C Govt should ensure all are involved in charting the nation’s future – Sir Sanders

sanders

August 3, 2020

Following is a statement by Sir Ronald Sanders on the Guyana elections result:

Sir Ronald Sanders is a veteran Caribbean diplomat who wrote extensively over the last five months urging respect for democracy and the rule of law in Guyana. As the Dean of the Caribbean Ambassadors at the Organisation of American States (OAS), he was influential in maintaining the organisation’s role in the Guyana elections process and its aftermath.

“The result of the March 2 elections, announced five months after they were held, is a triumph for democracy in Guyana.

“That it has taken so long and put the Guyanese people through so much emotional distress and tension, is most unfortunate.

“But, we must be thankful that the process has been peaceful so far, and look forward to wise heads continuing to prevail on all sides.

“Guyana now stands on the cusp of a much-improved economic future, with all the social benefits that should flow to all the Guyanese people.

“I congratulate President Irfaan Ail and the PPP [People’s Progressive Party] for their success at these elections.

“But, the result should not be an occasion for triumphalism by the PPP.

“Instead, it should be regarded as cause for celebration by all of Guyana, as the country takes its first steps up the ladder of expectation of a new prosperity in which every person in Guyana must be included.

“There are, of course, many disappointed APNU-AFC supporters.

“This happens in every contest. However, there need not be absolute winners and absolute losers.

“In the coming weeks and months, the new PPP administration should establish modalities for participation in all government institutions by each ethnic group, so that none feel neglected or left behind, and all become involved in charting the nation’s future and building it.”

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Antigua and Barbuda’s PM calls for continued alliance in congratulatory letter to President Ali

prime-minister-of-antigua-and-barbuda-hon-gaston-browne

Aug 04, 2020

The Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne has congratulated the new president of Guyana elected Dr. Irfaan Ali on his election victory following his swearing in Sunday last.

Prime Minister Browne, in his congratulatory letter to President Ali, noted that Guyana and Antigua and Barbuda has shared a long history of cooperation, with both countries being founding members of the Caribbean Free Trade Agreement, which then later led to the formation of the Caribbean Community CARICOM.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister further stated that it is his fervent expectation that the two countries will continue to work closely in their mutual interest and that of CARICOM.
In addition, Prime Minister Browne expressed his government’s satisfaction at the peaceful conclusion of the March 2 General and Regional Elections and further congratulated the political parties as well as the citizens of Guyana for the patience and restraint they have demonstrated throughout the electoral process.
“As Guyana stands on the threshold of economic transformation,” Browne said, “I wish you every success in your Presidency and in the stewardship of Guyana’s affairs, and I offer you my own and my Government’s support in the great cause of delivering prosperity to all the people of Guyana.”

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Canada congratulates President Irfaan Ali

francois-philippe-champagne-minister-of-foreign-affairs-of-canada

August 3, 2020

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:

“Canada welcomes the declaration of the Guyana Elections Commission and congratulates Irfaan Ali on his election as the ninth executive President of Guyana.

“We look forward to working with President Ali and his Government to advance our shared priorities.

“Despite challenges in recent weeks, through these election results, the will of the people of Guyana has been reflected and the democratic process has been upheld.

“Canada was pleased to support Guyana’s elections with technical assistance and assist the Carter Center’s election observation mission and CARICOM’s High Level Team, which observed the recounting of ballots.”

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New PPP/C Govt should ensure all are involved in charting the nation’s future – Sir Sanders

sanders

August 3, 2020

Following is a statement by Sir Ronald Sanders on the Guyana elections result:

Sir Ronald Sanders is a veteran Caribbean diplomat who wrote extensively over the last five months urging respect for democracy and the rule of law in Guyana. As the Dean of the Caribbean Ambassadors at the Organisation of American States (OAS), he was influential in maintaining the organisation’s role in the Guyana elections process and its aftermath.

“The result of the March 2 elections, announced five months after they were held, is a triumph for democracy in Guyana.

“That it has taken so long and put the Guyanese people through so much emotional distress and tension, is most unfortunate.

“But, we must be thankful that the process has been peaceful so far, and look forward to wise heads continuing to prevail on all sides.

“Guyana now stands on the cusp of a much-improved economic future, with all the social benefits that should flow to all the Guyanese people.

“I congratulate President Irfaan Ail and the PPP [People’s Progressive Party] for their success at these elections.

“But, the result should not be an occasion for triumphalism by the PPP.

“Instead, it should be regarded as cause for celebration by all of Guyana, as the country takes its first steps up the ladder of expectation of a new prosperity in which every person in Guyana must be included.

“There are, of course, many disappointed APNU-AFC supporters.

“This happens in every contest. However, there need not be absolute winners and absolute losers.

“In the coming weeks and months, the new PPP administration should establish modalities for participation in all government institutions by each ethnic group, so that none feel neglected or left behind, and all become involved in charting the nation’s future and building it.”

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Carter Center lauds end of Guyana’s election standoff; urges electoral & constitutional reforms

jason

August 3, 2020

See full statement from the Carter Center: 

ATLANTA (Aug. 3, 2020) — The Carter Center commends the Guyana Elections Commission and Chairperson Claudette Singh for finalizing the results of the 2020 election. It extends its congratulations to President Irfaan Ali as he assumes Guyana’s highest office and applauds former President David Granger’s statesmanship in recognizing GECOM’s declaration of results.

The Center now calls on all political parties to work together to facilitate a smooth transition from one government to another. The Guyanese people have shown great patience throughout this protracted process, and they deserve a government that represents all Guyanese and that works collaboratively to move the country forward.

The 2020 election was a true test of Guyana’s democracy, highlighting deep divides that persist in Guyanese society and the ways that the current political and electoral systems reinforce these divisions. It is critical that key leaders in Guyana now reach across the divide and work to ensure that fundamental electoral and constitutional reforms are completed as an urgent priority, well before the next election. Guyana’s political leaders spoke of these ideals during the campaign period, and the Center calls on them now to work together to realize them. An inclusive reform process – with civil society leaders playing a key role, and with strong support from the international community – will be essential.

The Center urges the new government to move quickly to begin this process and stands ready to assist in these efforts and advance Guyana’s vast potential.

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CARICOM congratulates President Ali

CARICOM Chair, Ralph Gonsalves

August 3, 2020

See full statement from the Caribbean Community:

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) welcomes the conclusion of the Guyana General and Regional Elections of 2 March 2020 with the declaration of the final results.

The Community congratulates His Excellency Mohammed Irfaan Ali, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on their victory at the polls.

The Chairman of CARICOM, Dr. the Honourable Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines called the President to extend his best wishes, while Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, personally conveyed his congratulations to the President at yesterday’s Swearing-in Ceremony.

CARICOM commends the people of Guyana for their patience and maturity during this protracted process, and will continue to support the country in its development efforts under its new Government.

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Commonwealth reaffirms willingness to help with inclusive governance

cw-sg-patricia-scotland-qc-620x350

August 3, 2020

Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland today congratulated President Irfaan Ali on his swearing in yesterday and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to support the people of Guyana in the strengthening of democratic and inclusive governance.

A statement by the Commonwealth Secretary General follows:

I extend congratulations to His Excellency Dr Irfan Ali upon his swearing-in as President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana following the declaration of the 2 March General Election and Regional election results on 2 August 2020 by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

I commend former President, His Excellency David Granger, for his stewardship of Guyana since 2015, and for conceding in recognition of the declaration made by GECOM and in accordance with his commitment to honour the declaration made by the Chairperson of the Guyana Electoral Commission, consistent with the Constitution of Guyana.

Through challenging times, the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission, Justice Claudette Singh (Ret’d) exemplified the courage, fortitude and grace required to uphold the constitution and the rule of law. I wish to thank her for the bravery and strength of purpose that she demonstrated throughout.

The Commonwealth Charter recognises the inalienable right of individuals to participate in democratic processes, in particular through free and fair elections in shaping the society in which they live and for this right to be protected and respected. On behalf of the entire Commonwealth family, I commend the people of Guyana for your continued patience and peace.

I wish to reaffirm the Commonwealth’s unwavering commitment to supporting the people of Guyana in their quest to strengthen democratic and inclusive governance and ensure sustainable socio-economic development in the country.

In this regard, I welcome the swearing-in remarks by President Ali that his Government will work in the interest of every Guyanese. I urge all political actors to embrace dialogue and tolerance towards fostering national reconciliation and cohesion for all Guyanese.

Profound gratitude, too, to the two Commonwealth Senior Electoral Advisers, deployed in January under the auspices of my good offices to support GECOM: Dr Nasim Zaidi, former Chief Election Commissioner of India; and Dr Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, former Chairman of the Ghana Elections Commission, who is still on the ground in Guyana, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Commonwealth will forever remember your selfless service.

Finally, the Chairman of the Commonwealth Observer Group to the 2 March General and Regional Elections was the indefatigable, Rt Hon Owen Arthur, former Prime Minister of Barbados, who sadly passed away recently.

As one of his very last gifts of notable leadership to the Caribbean and the Commonwealth, which he loved, he worked for Guyana to maintain its trajectory on a democratic path. He would have rejoiced witnessing this momentous and peaceful democratic landmark for Guyana. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

As always, I encourage any electoral grievances to be pursued through the prescribed legal channels.

May God bless Guyana and all her people.

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Western envoys congratulate Ali on presidency

diplomats

August 3, 2020

The envoys of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union yesterday congratulated Irfaan Ali on his swearing in as the President of Guyana and said they looked forward to “meaningful progress on constitutional reform and reconciliation”.

The Ambassador of the United States of America, Sarah-Ann Lynch, the British High Commissioner,  Greg Quinn, the Canadian High Commissioner,  Lilian Chatterjee, and the Ambassador of the European Union, Fernando Ponz-Canto, in a joint statement congratulated the people of Guyana and the Guyana Elections Commission for bringing the March 2nd elections to a peaceful and orderly conclusion.  “We congratulate the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on its electoral success and Mohamed Irfaan Ali on his swearing in as President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. We thank President David Granger for accepting the results as befits the dignity of his office. We thank all the political parties, technical advisors and all observers – international and domestic – who participated in the electoral process. We thank GECOM Chairwoman Claudette Singh for having the courage of her convictions to uphold Guyana’s Constitution.

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Democracy has prevailed – OAS says in congratulating President Ali

luis

August 2, 2020

See full statement from the Organisation of American States (OAS):

OAS Secretary General Congratulates the new President of Guyana Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali

The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), Luis Almagro, congratulates the new President of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, on his election. The OAS has closely monitored the situation in Guyana since the polls closed on the night of March 2, 2020. We are happy that the multiple calls by the General Secretariat, national stakeholders and bilateral and multilateral partners, for the genuine results of the elections to be respected, were heard by GECOM.

The OAS congratulates the people of Guyana for their patience. We also congratulate the GECOM Chair, Justice Ret’d Claudette Singh, for remaining true to her convictions and standing firm against the many efforts to undermine the will of the people.

Democracy in Guyana was put to the test in this process. Although it ultimately prevailed, it is clear there are weaknesses in Guyana’s electoral system that must be addressed. In the coming months we will issue our final report on the 2020 process with recommendations that can assist in addressing these weaknesses and avoiding a similar situation in the future.

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Joint statement from the ABC-EU Countries

abce

The Ambassador of the United States of America, H.E. Sarah-Ann Lynch, the British High Commissioner, H.E. Greg Quinn, the Canadian High Commissioner, H.E. Lilian Chatterjee, and the Ambassador of the European Union, H.E. Fernando Ponz-Canto, congratulates the people of Guyana and the Guyana Elections Commission for bringing to a peaceful and orderly conclusion the 2020 elections.

We congratulate the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) on its electoral success and Mohamed Irfaan Ali on his swearing in as President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. We thank President David Granger for accepting the results as befits the dignity of his office. We thank all the political parties, technical advisors and all observers – international and domestic – who participated in the electoral process. We thank GECOM Chairwoman Claudette Singh for having the courage of her convictions to uphold Guyana’s Constitution.

We look forward to working with President Ali and his government as it confronts many immediate challenges, including the need to address the social and economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and the development needs of Guyana’s people. We also look forward to seeing this government at its outset reach across political divisions to unite Guyanese of all ethnicities, races, and regions, around meaningful progress on constitutional reform and reconciliation.

As friends of Guyana, we look forward to working with all to continue to support Guyana’s development for the benefit of its people.

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