Parliament must be dissolved to pave way for unhindered General Elections

Dear Editor,

When the dust is settled from the partisan storm created and perpetuated by GECOM in preparation for General Elections and the Official List of Electors (OLE) is generated and accepted as ‘credible’ for such purpose of holding National and Regional Elections and at the end of those elections, it would be viewed as free and fair.

At this time, the matter of primary importance is to ensure that the General Elections are held on the date which was set by (a so-called promissory note) a proclamation for March 2, 2020. On account of the legal challenges and evidences, which stemmed from the valid No-Confidence Motion + Vote of December 21, 2018, and now on to the House –to–House registration appeal case filed against the High Court decision by the Attorney General where hearings are scheduled to start early December 2019 and this is expected to last until the mid of 2020 should the matter end up all the way to the CCJ. Such undertakings can very well push back General Elections beyond March 2, 2020.

Of course, should this happen, the prime beneficiary will always be the PNC- APNU caretaker government as they will continue gallivanting and enjoying their good life at the expense of tax payers’ dollars in high team spirits in violation of the 1980 Constitution, having no legitimacy and legal grounds to govern the nation whilst undermining democracy and the rule of law in Guyana.

As March 2, 2020 approaches, I urge Civil Society, the International Community, other International Organisations and Donor Agencies to call on caretaker President Granger to dissolve Parliament on or before December 4, 2019 covering 90 days up to March 2, 2020. This will ensure that General Elections are held on March 2, 2020 as per proclamation and are not push back to accommodate further court cases.

Sincerely yours,
Paul Ramrattan