Even though several key international organizations such as the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States, the European Union, the ABC (America, Britain and Canada) Countries and CARICOM have categorically stated that the laws on holding transparent and credible elections have not been respected, Dr. Riyad Insanally, Ambassador of Guyana to the United States and the Organization of American States feels otherwise.
In his recent commentary to the Latin American Advisor, a daily publication for a distinguished network of global leaders, the envoy said there is no breakdown of law and order in Guyana.
Dr. Insanally said one needs to bear in mind that the situation in Guyana is “complicated.” The Ambassador said, “The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) had agreed last Friday to proceed with a recount of the ballots cast in the March 2 General and Regional elections…President David Granger and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had agreed for a team of experts from the Caribbean Community to observe the recount, but it had been stymied by a court injunction.”
However, the Full Court has since dismissed the injunction, a decision that the Court of Appeal upheld on Sunday. This has paved the way for the recount to continue but GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield reported today that this would take more than 150 days to complete.
Be that as it may, Dr. Insanally sought to remind that Guyana remains a sovereign state governed by the rule of law and one in which there is full respect for the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary. In this regard, he stressed that several facts are worth bearing in mind. The Ambassador maintained that the election was conducted according to Guyana’s Constitution and laws. The envoy further stated that GECOM, an independent body that is constitutionally charged to conduct and supervise the elections, is managing the electoral process.
He went on to state that “the Executive branch has never tried to influence, interfere with or instruct GECOM.” The Ambassador said that at all times, the Executive branch, GECOM and, indeed, all stakeholders have respected the rulings of the courts while noting that the electoral process is not yet completed.
He further stated that GECOM has not issued any declaration. Dr.Insanally said that once GECOM conducts a recount, the results will be declared in full accordance with the law, paving the way for the legitimate swearing-in of a president. In his conclusion, the Ambassador sought to assure global leaders that there is no breakdown in the rule of law or public order in Guyana.
