UK High Commissioner calls for election of Opposition Leader `without delay’

-Nadir says has no answer at this time

Emphasizing that both government and opposition parliamentarians occupy a “critical role” in the legislative process, British High Commissioner Jane Miller yesterday called for the election of a Leader of the Opposition to take place “without delay”.

Her call came amid growing concern here and abroad that the government and the Speaker, Manzoor Nadir are undermining the functioning of Parliament in a bid to prevent US-indicted politician Azruddin Mohamed from being sworn in as the Leader of the Opposition.

In an invited comment to Stabroek News, Miller noted that Guyana’s system of governance hinges on the active participation of all elected members to effectively represent the populace. To that end, the High Commissioner called for the election of a Leader of the Opposition to take place “without delay,” stating that the appointment is a necessary prerequisite for parliamentarians to fully execute their constitutional duties to the people of Guyana. She also stated that there exists a vital link between a robust legislature and a flourishing democracy, telling Stabroek News that she “eagerly awaits” the formal opening of the National Assembly. The 13th parliament met once on November 3rd and another session is yet to be called despite the government’s claim that it has a busy legislative agenda.