EMANCIPATION DAY MESSAGE 2022 APNU+AFC
HAPPY EMANCIPATION DAY to the Guyanese people
Today marks the 184th anniversary of the abolition of chattel slavery, one of the world’s most dehumanizing systems of man by man. The Coalition salutes all Guyanese, especially those of African descent for whom Emancipation Day holds landmark significance. We therefore join in the celebrations and commemorations across the county. In observing this Emancipation Day, we must always recognize that emancipation was not granted to enslaved Africans as a gift for them to enjoy for the first time Many Africans already lived freely in their homelands before they were captured, enslaved, and shipped across the seas Freedom and self determination were therefore already birth rights of many Africans in Africa The formal abolition of slavery in 1838 therefore must be properly and justifiably recognized as ACKNOWLEDGING AND RESTORING THAT EARLIER FREEDOM. As Afro Guyanese reflect on Emancipation Day 2022, they must take pride in the fact that history has shown that they are a people who are willing to make the ultimate sacrifices to defend and restore their dignities, rights, and freedoms; who are resolute and resilient in the face of great adversities; who always eventually emerge victorious over their oppressors; who see their unity as a core strength; who see hard work as a source of their self worth and self identity; and who are willing to coexist and cooperate with other races and ethnic groups in Guyana based on the ideals of mutual respect, shared burdens and responsibilities, shared prosperity, and a shared destiny Emancipation in 1838, however, never meant the end of the struggle for the freed Africans In Guyana, it only marked the beginning of a new war of liberation for economic opportunities and self reliance; for full human rights; and for political self determination The earlier Afro Guyanese fully understood this Soon after emancipation, they collectively started the Village Movement They purchased plantations to establish communities in which they sought to transform and better their reality While there have been many successes, that struggle continues Afro Guyanese today must therefore re commit themselves to the spirit of those who fought (such as Kofi, Quamina, and Damon) for the repossession of their freedom during enslavement Afro Guyanese must ensure that the struggles and sacrifices of these freedom fighters serve to build a nation in which all Guyanese can live a life free from want, inequality, discrimination, subjugation, and other indignities. Once again, HAPPY
EMANCIPATION DAY ON THE SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF PPP BAD GOVERNANCE H HAAPPPPY Y 1 18844tth h E EMMAANNCCIIPPAATTIIOON N A ANNNNIIVVEERRSSAARRY Y 1 1sst t A Auugguusst t 1 188338 8 -- 1 1sst t A Auugguusst t 2 200222 2 Volume 66, No. 7 July 2022 newnation gy@yahoo.com Price: $100 Party events and news Page 9 Page 11 MEET AND GREET -Visits to and by the Party Leader LAW: What is NATURAL JUSTICE? Notes on our PEOPLE-FIRST vision Opposition Motion on Su-gate. Mervyn Williams' letter on the plight of the Wai Wai Page 12 Page 12 Page 2 Page 3
NEW NATION, July P2022 age 1
NEW NATION, July P2022 age 2 SUGATE: SPEAKER WRONGHEADED TO DENY OPPOSITION MOTION contracts are awarded not to the highest BIDDER but to the highest BRIBER and (ii) the extent to which VP Jagdeo and other PPP ministers are selling out the country for so called “consultation fees ” Given all that, we in the Opposition have no hesitation in describing the Speaker’s decision to deny our motion as SHAMEFUL AND DISHONORABLE Of course, we know the Speaker of the House is not predisposed to perform his duties in a fair and impartial manner We know to whom he slavishly answers. No wonder, Stabroek News described him in its 25th July Editorial (the day after his dishonorable rulings) as being “challenged” in the departments of (to paraphrase the editorial) competence, familiarity with the Standing Orders and parliamentary practice, the degree to which he behaves impartially, and the extent to which he can control the House The Opposition remains committed to ensuring a credible, independent, impartial investigation by credible and competent international investigators
(ii) President Ali, VP Jagdeo himself, and Robeson Benn (Minister of Home Affairs) have all called for an investigation irrespective of the fact that they were engaging in political damage control under the pressure of growing public outrage How could the Speaker if he wished to prove his self claimed independence choose to ignore this reality?
At the most recent sitting of the National Assembly the Opposition APNU+AFC tabled a motion on “ a definite matter of urgent public importance.” The Motion simply asked the National Assembly to take immediate action to ensure an independent, credible, and impartial investigation, by international investigators into the allegations of bribery, corruption and money laundering as revealed in the two documentaries released by Vice News involving Bharrat Jagdeo and Vice President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana The Speaker Manzoor Nadir denied the motion. For the benefit of the Guyanese public, we here respond to the flimsy reasons he tendered for his decision. The Speaker claimed that the Su gate affair was merely another allegation of corruption made in the press and, as such, did not reach the threshold as an urgent matter of national importance The ridiculousness of the Speaker’s decision is clear cut when one considers that: (i) in the Vice News reports, the allegations of bribe taking, influence peddling, and money laundering involving VP Jagdeo are supported by self incriminatory utterances made on hidden camera by Su Zhirong (VP Jagdeo’s go between and fixer), other participants, and by VP Jagdeo himself in the comfort of his Pradoville mansion
(iii) the growing calls from Civil Society and others for an inquiry or investigation Former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran has called for an investigation The independent media have called for an investigation. Many citizens likewise. Since the sitting, we have seen TIGI and Ralph Ramkarran joining their call for an inquiry. (iv) the Guyanese people themselves want a proper investigation. Yes, over the years, they have heard many allegations of high level corruption But this one stinks to high heavens, and they want to know the full facts especially (i) the extent to which
Editorial NEED A COMPREHENSIVE SAFETY NET from article by Amanza Walton Desir, MP The disrespect and mistreatment of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples continue under the PPP This time they cause unnecessary suffering to the Wai Wai Nation Public schools closed for the holidays on 8th July Families in Masakenari, Deep South Rupununi have children attending the secondary school in Aishalton Accustomed to their children returning home immediately after the last day of the school term via air transport provided by the APNU+AFC government, families waited The only means of communication with the Indigenous Wai Wai nation of Masakenari is by Wi Fi The Village Wi Fi stopped working in March 2022 Countless reports have been made to the authorities but no action has been taken Toshao Chekema also reported this at the recently held NTC conference To date, still no action has been taken to restore the Wi Fi service to Masakenari Consequently, much hardship has been visited upon the Villagers, particularly those with children in schools away from the village and those with medical conditions requiring medical attention not available in the village. Families were forced to leave Masakenari to go in search of their children who are attending Aishalton Secondary School after several days had gone by and they had not returned home They journeyed for six (6) days They first had to cover a distance of 360 KM by river to Parabara using one drum of gasoline in the process Then there was the overland journey from Parabara to Aishalton a distance of 86 KM A part of that journey had to be undertaken using rented motor cycles to Karaudanawa Upon arrival at Aishalton, they discovered that the children were transported to Masakenari on 20th July, almost two weeks after school closed Parents now had to journey to Lethem, 125 KM away from Aishalton They are now stuck in Lethem where they await the first truck to Parabara so that they can make their way home to Masakenari to reunite with their children The school holidays may be over by the time they get back home All of this could have been avoided if the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs had provided air transport to take the children to their home village of Masakeari on Saturday 9th July, one day after the school term ended as the people of Masakenari expected In the unlikely event that, an aircraft was not available, the Wi Fi should have been in working order Access to communication would have solved the problem and prevented the undue anxiety and suffering of parents and children alike. Sadly, parents are now reconsidering sending their children to Aishalton Secondary School.
Published by the PNCR Public Relations Department Address: Congress Place, Sophia, Georgetown GUYANA Tel: (592) 225 7852 5 newnation gy@yahoo com or pncreform1@gmail com Communications Supervisor: Kim Chung, MS Technical & Communications Officer: Andrew Weekes
For information, Conservation International (Guyana) had installed Wi Fi in Masakenari sometime between 2008 12 Government of Guyana, in its programme to provide internet service to hinterland villages and communities installed and maintained Wi Fi in Masakenari in or around 2016 Over the past two years or so, the PPP administration has evidently abandoned the most remote Village in Guyana Masakenari home of our Indigenous Wai Wai nation.
It is no secret that the average Guyanese can no longer afford two balanced meals a day Basic food items have trippled since the beginning of the year and as if the steady diet of trials and tribulations that Guyanese have been fed over the last two years is not enough, the latest indication by the Bank of Guyana that the cost of living is expected to double by year end has now been added to our already full plates The current Government’s modus operandi of traipsing around Guyana, doling out one off cash grants to select groups is unsustainable to say the least. It betrays the fact that there is a serious lack of proper strategic planning for the long term development of Guyana and Guyanese Propaganda is one thing, governance is another And the Ali Administration sucks at governance It is clearly lost upon them that the best approach for all of Guyana would be to build a comprehensive, adaptive social protection system instead of the fragmented, capricious exercises we currently see on display. President Ali if he really does care, must forego the globe trotting, the photo ops and cheap political gimmickry, roll up his sleeves and actually get to work He must get to work top deliver for the people of Guyana! And I don't mean roads As his now Public Works Minister reminded when he was in opposition "people can't eat road" Ali must deliver for our people a social protection programme which will protect poor and vulnerable households, irrespective of their race or political affiliation against shocks, whether caused by economic crises, natural disasters or climate change and which is responsive and flexible enough to address the needs of Guyanese as they emerge The APNU/AFC has put forward several recommendations in this regard but these have been dismissed out of hand by the Ali Administration with no viable alternatives being announced The Government instead continues on its ostrich like march towards literally cementing Guyana as a nation of the haves and have nots The inherent danger that such an approach poses to Guyanese has been on full display over the last few weeks A prudent, sober government would notice the air of quiet desperation which characterizes the daily existence of poor and working class Guyanese As Rodney Price so eloquently explained " poor people fed up "
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The PPP has abandoned the Indigenous Wai Wai Village of Masakenari
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NEW NATION, July 2022 Page 3 NEED FOR A SOCIAL SAFETY NET Amanza Walton Desir
The need for a comprehensive social safety net for Guyanese is now more urgent than ever Such a programme will assist our poorest and most vulnerable citizens by implementing measures to offset the soaring cost of living and protect disposable income
UN INTERNATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS - August 12 August International Youth Day. 19 August World Humanitarian day. 30 August International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. NEW NATION ANALYSIS AND OPINION
NEW NATION, July 2022 Page 4 ANALYSIS AND OPINION
NEW NATION, July P2022 age 5 Abraham (upon whom be peace) The observance signifies the willingness of the Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as ordered by Allah It is one of Islam’s most important holidays However, as Abraham was about to kill Ismail, Allah stopped him, sending the Angel Jibreel, or Gabriel, with a ram to sacrifice instead Since then it has become a duty on all Muslims to sacrifice animals on the occasion as a reminder of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son to please Allah The significance is to sacrifice what comes between us and Allah whether it be ego, material possessions, passion, or power and to resolve to fully obey Him These teachings hold great significance in giving moral and spiritual directions to our personal life. The APNU+AFC has always been and will always remain respectful of Guyana’s cultural and religious diversity and believes that our diversity serves to the country’s advantage May this occasion inspire all Guyanese to recommit to the ideals of unity, selflessness, shared sacrifices, and a shared destiny SPECIAL OCASSIONS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Residents of Region #4... PLEASE TAKE NOTE. BIRTHDAY GREETINGS!
MEDIA RELEASES
PRESS CONFERENCE
RISING COST OF LIVING: not an abstract discussion about official inflation rates, but about what families feel in their pockets, purses and on kitchen tables
The recent release of the Bank of Guyana Quarterly report for 2022 has created confusion in the media over what are the actual and projected inflation rates for food and in the overall cost of living For most Guyanese and their families, the real inflation numbers are of no significance What they know as facts are: i) They can buy far less now than they did when the Coalition demitted office in August 2022 People are worse off today (ii) they know that with each passing month, the cost of living is getting higher daily By Christmas Day 2022, their spending power will be neither “SPENDING” nor “POWER”. (iii) They see that the PPP govt has no serious plan for cost of living relief that serves them Any cash transfer is sporadic, unpredictable, politicized, and inadequate Moreover, Guyanese see that the PPP cash dole outs ultimately end up benefitting PPP cronies and a small business cabal The recent Housing “relief” for example We join with the Guyanese people in rejecting this haphazardness by the PPP This approach cannot guarantee the people of Guyana a decent living It is in this context we demand that the government ensures that our people be given a minimum livable income. The next Coalition government will implement social protection and assistance policies and programs that are predictable, guaranteed, sustained and cover all those in need without ethnic and political discrimination (Released: 26 July) wishes to condemn in the strongest manner the decision of the PPP/C to suspend eight Opposition Members of Parliament for protecting the resources of our people The Government’s decision is unconstitutional since it violates the principles of Natural Justice and did not allow for due process. This is another manifestation of the undemocratic and lawless behaviour of the PPP/C in the National Assembly. It is the same undemocratic behaviour in the National Assembly on December 29th, 2021, when they purported to pass the contentious Natural Resource Fund Bill that led to protest action The PPPC ignored a petition signed by Guyanese requesting that the Bill goes to a special select committee to allow for broad based consultations in keeping with Article 13 which states that ‘The principal objective of the political system of the State is to establish an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing opportunities for the participation of citizens, and their organisations in the management and decision making processes of the State, with particular emphasis on those areas of decision making that directly affect their well being ” It must be recalled that many civil society organizations publicly asked for more consultation on those aspects of the Bill that were quite troubling, especially the significant reduction in civil society oversight of the NRF by reducing the twenty two person committee in the APNU+AFC 2019 Act to just nine members. Our eight Members of Parliament were upholding the constitution and representing the people of this country when they requested that the contentious bill be referred to a Special Select Committee Our eight Members of Parliament were fighting for the respect for the Rule of Law and against the undemocratic behavior of the government by vehemently calling for there to be consultation on the Bill Having fought to protect our people from a NRF that has been structured to facilitate PPPC corruption, domination, and control the PPP/C who were referred to the Committee of Privileges were always afforded the opportunity to be represented by legal counsel of their choice and were all given the opportunity to be heard c) An act of political discrimination and suppression, aimed at deterring and intimidating Opposition MPs from fully scrutinizing and criticizing the actions of the government on behalf of the Guyanese people at a time when the government is squandering our resources The PPP/C acts in complete disregard for the rule of law as it continues to demolish the guardrails of our democracy These dictatorial actions of the government must be met with the fiercest of fight in accordance with our constitution To date, this regime has withdrawn G$83 2B and there is no transparency or accountability and Parliamentary opposition rejects PPP govt's attempts to silence its MPs there is nothing we as Guyanese can point to as a tangible investment or development in our country In fact, life has gotten worse under the PPPC as they mismanage the economy and enrich its elite, friends, and families. The PPPC handpicked Board of Directors has not made any public statement since their installment and we the Guyanese people are yet to see any form of oversight as is recommended by the Bill that was passed under questionable circumstances We wish to make it clear that on that fateful night we saw ourselves as the last line of defense in light of PPPC intransigence and dictatorial behaviour. Today, the raping of our Natural Resource Fund continues under this installed regime, but we will stand together as a people against the ongoing mismanagement and squandering of our resources (Released 20 July)wants to sanction us without respect for the principles of natural justice and due process which necessitate that the accused be given adequate notice, a fair hearing and to be represented by legal counsel It is enshrined in our constitution that every citizen including MPs must be given a fair hearing by a competent, impartial, and fair court or any other tribunal as mandated by law. All eight Members of Parliament responded between the 4th and 7th March, 2022, to a letter which requested that they “show cause ” , in writing, to the Clerk of the National why the Committee of Privileges should not recommend to the National Assembly that sanctions be meted out to them for alleged gross disorderly conduct, contempt, and breaches of privileges. All eight MPs requested further information from the Clerk of the National Assembly on the allegations, since the motion which referred them to the Committee of Privileges for gross disorderly conduct, contempt, and breaches of privileges NEVER specified which of their acts so qualified To this day, not one of the eight Members of Parliament has received a response from the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Clerk of the Committee of Privileges, or the Speaker of the National Assembly. However, the Opposition MPs are now in receipt of a report from the Committee of Privileges which has ascribed to them several false and trumped up acts intended to impugn their good character The report recommends suspension for all MPs We reject this attempt to silence our voices in the National Assembly as we consider it to be: a) Unconstitutional because our constitution the supreme law of our land enshrines the right of all citizens to natural justice; that is, the right of every Guyanese, regardless of the charges, to be given an opportunity to be heard by a competent, independent, and impartial court or any other tribunal prescribed by law b) Unparliamentary because the records of Parliament show that all Members of Parliament in the past PANEL 26 July L to R: Advisor to the Leader, Elson Low; CEC member Mervyn Williams; MP Deonarine Ramsaroop; MP Ganesh Mahipaul; Shaneika Haynes, Moderator
NEW NATION, July 2022 Page 6
CONTINUED
VP JADGEO STILL PRANCING AROUND, PRETENDING TO IGNORE THE NATIONAL CALL FOR HIS REMOVAL FROM OFFICE
Recent editorials in the Stabroek News fully captured the thoughts and feelings of most Guyanese that the PPP “likes to control everything The PPP is hell bent on total domination and control and is establishing a one party state while using “One Guyana” as a political cover Its obsession with domination and control is blinding it to the growing fractures and tensions just beneath the surface in our own society. The evidence of the PPP’s fixation on power grabbing and one party control abounds: a) The exclusion of the Opposition nominees from the NRF. b) The termination of the services of professionals in institutions which the PPP wants to convert to rubber stamps to serve its business cronies Examples: Vincent Adams at EPA and Marlon Cole at FDA c) The illegal concentration of power into the hands of the PPP Chair and Vice Chair on the Local Government Commission d) The politicization and manipulation of the GPF and GDF e) The attacks by the PPP on the free press and on independent civil society groups f) The revelations from Su gate that VP Jagdeo and other ministers engage in secret and possibly DISCUSSIONS AMONG OPPOSITION PARTIES ON CRISIS SITUATION IN GUYANA UNDER THE PPP
THE NATIONAL TOSHAOS CONFERENCE 2022a show of disrespect for the Indigenous People by the PPP We note that the National Toshaos Conference is being held this week after a two year break Despite the machinations by the PPP to exert political control over the proceedings, the APNU+AFC welcome the Indigenous Leaders Indigenous Leaders and people must demand their right to self determination They must demand that the PPP respect their right to Free Prior and Informed Consent, as provided for in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). They must therefore protest the lack of consultations in planning the conference They must protest the non invitation of members of the immediate past executive of the National Toshaos’ Council, Non Governmental Organizations, and the Parliamentary Opposition They must demand to set their own agenda and to manage the sessions themselves They must demand a discussion of such issues as the revision of the Amerindian Act, the victimization of elected village leaders based on perceived political affiliation, the land and mining rights issues at Isseneru, Chinese Landing and the Marudi Mountain; and how Indigenous families and communities will benefit from our oil revenues. Our Indigenous Leaders must defeat the goal of the PPP to dominate and dictate what is best for the Indigenous People This attitude of the PPP reeks of disrespect and assumed superiority
MEDIA RELEASES
. On Monday, 11 July 2022, the APNU+AFC Coalition and the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) met to discuss the growing crisis in governance, democracy, and living conditions in Guyana Present at meeting were Leader of the PNCR and the Parliamentary Opposition Aubrey C Norton, MP; Leader of the AFC Khemraj Ramjattan; AFC General Secretary Sherod Duncan; AFC executive members Juretha Fernandes and Deonarine Ramsaroop; Keith Scott, Sheik Yaseen and C Joseph from the National Front Alliance (NFA); Dr David Hinds and Tacuma Ogunseye from the Working People’s Alliance (WPA); and Tabitha Sarabo Halley, Leader of the Guyana Nation Builders The meeting was cordial and productive All parties agreed that in response to the escalating political crisis in Guyana under the PPP, they must coordinate and collaborate to conduct a strategic campaign to rescue Guyana The parties agreed that the crisis in Guyana is rooted in the PPP’s obsession with political domination, in its neglect of the problems and concerns of ordinary Guyanese, and in its zeal for self aggrandizement by serving a narrow business cabal and cronies The opposition parties recommitted to engage in further discussions with the aim of taking Guyana back for the people of Guyana (Released: 11 July)
We note that VP Jagdeo continues to “ mamaguy ” around the place as if the Su gate allegations of bribe taking and influence peddling swirling around him amount to nothing His efforts at pretending that all is normal will not fool the Guyanese public nor distract them from their demand for him to go regardless of whether a proper investigation of the VICE News revelations is launched Guyanese have lost whatever little confidence they had in the VP and see him as lacking morality and integrity since Su gate They view all his pronouncements on private sector development and foreign investments with greater suspicion and distrust than before His reputation is beyond repair, his character beyond salvage. In the eyes of the people, there is nothing he nor the PPP can do to restore any confidence in him and in the government over which he lords. In these circumstances, his only option is to immediately resign and distance himself from any involvement in government affairs The people demand no less Guyana deserves to breathe again (Released 26 July)
Indigenous people must force the PPP to back off from trampling on their dignity and rights Should the PPP be allowed to prevail with its agenda of domination, control and disrespect, then Indigenous Leaders, communities, and people will never be masters of their own destiny under this government For inspiration, Indigenous Leaders and people can look to the first ever "National Amerindian Leaders Conference”, held on 28th February to 8th March 1969 at the Chamber of the Parliament. The Nation's Village Captains (as they were then called) were led by the late Mary Williams, Captain of the Wayaka/Mainstay Village. This historical event set both the format for future engagement with government Ministers and government's high regard for the self determination and the will of Guyana's Indigenous Peoples The profound declaration made at the closing ceremony by Prime Minister Burnham after robust discussion with Indigenous Leaders was "We cannot develop the coast separately from the interior " Indigenous Leaders must therefore see this year ’ s conference as the occasion when they must take a stand and draw the line in the sand for their right to self determination. The APNU+AFC stands ready to support your struggle against PPP domination and your cause for equality of treatment (Released 12 July)
corrupt sales of the people’s assets, such as oil contracts g) The PPP’s insistence that GECOM and the bloated Voters List remain intact in its hope to exploit the weaknesses and loopholes in the electoral system h) The disregard for Parliament and the many conventions that should exist in a democratic society. The people of Guyana do not trust this government. Clearly we are in a political crisis and all fair minded Guyanese must work together to oppose this incompetent, corrupt and divisive dictatorship that is squandering our oil wealth When people are faced with the raft of social and economic grievances that are being experienced by the people of Guyana, when they no longer trust their government and their institutions, when the government appears to serve mostly narrow or special interests and groups, when equality and justice are merely words, then a society can potentially implode. Under the PPP government, Guyana has reached that crisis point. Too many families live under poor conditions The continued rising cost of living has increased both poverty and inequality in Guyana What little faith the people were willing to invest in the PPP has now been wrecked by allegations of corruption in the Su gate affair The President’s call for law enforcement to investigate Jagdeo rings hallow In democratic society, Jagdeo must be fired to pave the way for an independent investigation The President could only be taken seriously if he fires the Second Vice President and he invites independent and credible investigators to deal with the allegations of bribery and corruption and allow the law to take its course The foregoing takes on added significance when it is noted that recent polls have confirmed the loss of public trust in our institutions, including but not restricted to the GPF and GECOM The PPP regime fails to grasp this disturbing reality Its continued arrogance and self delusion are plunging the country into greater danger. Its mad desire for total domination must stop and be stopped Its selling of the country’s assets to narrow business interests and cronies must stop and be stopped Its normalization of high level corruption must stop and be stopped The Coalition will fight alongside the Guyanese people to take back their country for the people themselves (Released: 12 July)
NEW NATION, July P2022 age 7
PPP’s OBSESSION FOR DOMINATION AND CONTROL IS INCREASING TENSIONS IN OUR SOCIETY
THE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE CONTINUES ON ECD AND ELSEWHERE - in pictures MEDIA RELEASES
Speaker's decision to deny Opposition motion on SUgate expected but shameful and dishonorable
NEW NATION, July P2022 age 8
At the most recent sitting of the National Assembly the Opposition APNU+AFC tabled a motion on “ a definite matter of urgent public importance ” The Motion simply asked the National Assembly to take immediate action to ensure an independent, credible, and impartial investigation, by international investigators into the allegations of bribery, corruption and money laundering as revealed in the two documentaries released by Vice News involving Bharrat Jagdeo and Vice President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana The Speaker Manzoor Nadir denied the motion For the benefit of the Guyanese public, we here respond to the flimsy reasons he tendered for his decision The Speaker claimed that the Su gate affair was merely another allegation of corruption made in the press and, as such, did not reach the threshold as an urgent matter of national importance The ridiculousness of the Speaker’s decision is clear cut when one considers that: (i) in the Vice News reports, the allegations of bribe taking, influence peddling, and money laundering involving VP Jagdeo are supported by self incriminatory utterances made on hidden camera by Su Zhirong (VP Jagdeo’s go between and fixer), other participants, and by VP Jagdeo himself in the comfort of his Pradoville mansion.
(ii) President Ali, VP Jagdeo himself, and Robeson Benn (Minister of Home Affairs) have all called for an investigation irrespective of the fact that they were engaging in political damage control under the pressure of growing public outrage How could the Speaker if he wished to prove his self claimed independence choose to ignore this reality? (iii) the growing calls from Civil Society and others for an inquiry or investigation Former Auditor General Anand Goolsarran has called for an investigation. The independent media have called for an investigation Many citizens likewise. Since the sitting, we have seen TIGI and Ralph Ramkarran joining their call for an inquiry. (iv) the Guyanese people themselves want a proper investigation. Yes, over the years, they have heard many allegations of high level corruption But this one stinks to high heavens, and they want to know the full facts especially (i) the extent to which contracts are awarded not to the highest BIDDER but to the highest BRIBER and (ii) the extent to which VP Jagdeo and other PPP ministers are selling out the country for so called “consultation fees ” Given all that, we in the Opposition have no hesitation in describing the Speaker’s decision to deny our motion as SHAMEFUL AND DISHONORABLE Of course, we know the Speaker of the House is not predisposed to perform his duties in a fair and impartial manner We know to whom he slavishly answers No wonder, Stabroek News described him in its 25th July Editorial (the day after his dishonorable rulings) as being “challenged” in the departments of (to paraphrase the editorial) competence, familiarity with the Standing Orders and parliamentary practice, the degree to which he behaves impartially, and the extent to which he can control the House The Opposition remains committed to ensuring a credible, independent, impartial investigation by credible and competent international investigators (Released: 26 July)
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION IN MEETING WITH LINDEN MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL AND RDC #10 COUNCILORS
The purpose of the meeting was for the Leader to be updated on the issues and concerns confronting the development of the Region and town The Leader also exchanged ideas with the councilors and provided guidance to the council with regards providing improved services to their constituents in the region g p p p g 9 3 1964 disturbances The scars which the Son Chapman tragedy left on the people of Linden cannot be erased They are painful reminders that Guyana needs a political solution that would be long lasting and for the benefit of all ANNUAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY 2022 AGRICOLA Monday, 4th July
PNCR Leader and Leader of the Opposition Aubrey C. Norton, MP, and Vice Chairman of the PNCR Elizabeth Williams Niles attended the Senior Citizens Day event held by the Agricola Seventh Day Adventist Church and the Car i O i i f A i l The Le addres The an commu And co
On Sunday, 3 July 2022, PNCR Leader and Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey C. Norton, MP, worshipped with the congregation of the Immanuel Congregational Church in Hopetown, WCB Accompanying him was PNCR Vice Chairman Vinceroy Jordan, MP, who offered prayers for the students of the community who will soon be sitting National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). And in Hopetown, WCB...
NEW NATION, July 2022 Page 9
PARTY EVENTS AND NEWS
The Leader of the Opposition and the People’s National Congress Reform Aubrey C Norton, MP, met in Linden on Wednesday, 13 July 2022 with Councilors of the Linden Mayor and Town Council and the Regional Democratic Council of Region #10
NEW NATION, July 2022 Page 10 LINDEN MARTYRS DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND SERVICE Monday, 18 July 2022 at the Linden Martyrs Memorial Park, Linden. PARTY EVENTS AND NEWS Remembering those injured and murdered on 18th July 2012 in their fight for justice in Linden. Këëp wåtçhï åñd føøwï üs
The Leader of the Opposition and People’s National Congress Reform Aubrey C Norton, MP, along with the General Secretary of the PNCR Geeta Chandan Edmond, MP, met with US Ambassador Sarah Lynch and the Business Executives for National Security on 21st July 2022
NEW NATION, July P2022 age 11
The discussions covered a wide range of issues including human rights, reparations, and cultural and educational exchanges between the people of G d Af i
Accompanying the Leader of the Opposition were PNCR Chairman Shurwayne Holder, MP; PNCR General Secretary Geeta Chandan Edmond, MP; PNCR Vice Chair Vinceroy Jordan, MP; PNCR Vice Chair Elizabeth Williams Niles, Roysdale Forde, MP; Natasha Singh Lewis, MP; Amanza Walton Desir, MP, and Kibwe Copland of the GYSM
MEETING BETWEEN OPPOSITION LEADER AND GROUPS INTERESTED IN HEMP CULTIVATION AND MANUFACTURING
The meeting discussed Guyana’s development prospects and potential areas of collaboration
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION AND TEAM MEET WITH AFRICAN ROYAL DELEGATION MEET AND GREET
The Royal Delegation included His Highness Paul Jones Eganda, HRH King Pape Sande, Her Royal Majesty Queen Cyntia Puna Khumalo Mzilikazi, Her Royal Highness Queen Ameena, Her Royal Highness Princess Lindiwe Precious Nthibogelang, Her Royal Highness Princess Tshepi Motloung, Mrs Mpho Dindi and others
The representatives expressed their dissatisfaction with the limited scope of the Bill. They also highlighted the fact that the Bill sets the stage for discrimination against small farmers and some communities and regions. The Leader committed the Coalition to represent their interests during today’s parliamentary debate The delegation thanked the Leader for the opportunity to share their concerns and exchange ideas. NOTE: Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is the same species of plant as cannabis and is grown specifically for industrial or medicinal use It can be used to make a wide range of products Unlike cannabis, hemp contains low levels (less than 0.3%.) of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive substance found in marijuana By comparison, marijuana typically contains 5 to 20% of THC. As such, one cannot get high on hemp.
Leader of the Opposition and the People’s National Congress Reform Aubrey C Norton, MP, met recently with representatives of groups interested in hemp cultivation and manufacturing to discuss the Industrial Hemp Bill before the National Assembly for debate today, Thursday, 21st July 2022 The stated purpose of the Industrial Hemp Bill 2022 is “to provide for the cultivating and manufacturing of industrial hemp and hemp related products; to provide for the conducting of research on industrial hemp or any other activity concerning or related to industrial hemp; to establish the Guyana Industrial Hemp Regulatory Authority; and other related matters ”
On Friday, 29th July at Congress Place, Leader of the Opposition Aubrey C Norton and team received a Royal Delegation from Africa visiting Guyana.
OPPOSITION LEADER AND PNCR GENERAL SECRETARY MEET US DELEGATION IN GUYANA
NEW NATION, July P2022 age 12
Source: The Guyanese Slang Alphabet (2019) by Edgar A Henry Lët ë pëøplë kñøw
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Context matters What exactly constitutes ade quate notice and a fair and unbiased hearing varies depending on the circumstances and the forum for the decision The specific require ments are quite different, for example, in a criminal court where someone ’ s liberty may be at stake, than in a court hearing a lawsuit about property, or a small claims court proceeding, or an administrative process on workplace disci plinary matters In other words, practices that meet the stan dard of administrative fairness in one decision making context may be inadequate in another. Factors to be considered include (i) the nature of the decision, (iii) the importance of the deci sion to the individual affected, and (iii) the le gitimate expectations of the parties.
The court action filed by the eight Opposi tion MPs to prevent their suspension from parliament argues that the decision is unconstitutional since the investiga tion conducted by the Committee of Privi leges did not allow for due process and did not allow them to be heard In sum, the MPs are claiming that the ruling violates the principles of natural justice. So, what is NATURAL JUSTICE and why is it important? The expressions “natural justice,” “procedural fairness” and “administrative fairness” are sometimes used interchangeably. However, natural justice is the historical concept that has been expanded to include the more modern principles of procedural fairness and adminis trative fairness Essentially, natural justice requires that per sons receive a fair and unbiased hearing before a decision is made that will negatively affect them
TALKING POINTS Putting people first
(i) The notice requirement means that the peo ple affected by the decision must be provided adequate prior notice and be given enough in formation to be able to participate meaning fully in the decision making process
The three main requirements of natural justice that must be met in every case are: ade quate notice, fair hearing and no bias Some times, all three of these concepts are grouped together as “the right to a fair hearing ”
G Gååññëëssë ë ssllåås s Jert food, ration. Juta shoes Quashie friend or partner. Ratchax a lewd woman Raggety scruffy Boosee police. Cush same score, a tied game Nyam to eat food. Nennen a godmother. Bacha child Satah quiet, calm.
(ii) The fair hearing requirement means that the people affected are given a reasonable op portunity to present their point of view and to respond to facts presented by others, and that the decision maker will genuinely consider what each person has told them when making the decision (iii) The no bias requirement means that the person making the decision must act impar tially when considering the matter, and must not have any relationships with anyone that could lead someone to reasonably doubt their impartiality.
In the case of the eight MPs, the natural justice standards would be high because the stakes in volved are high If found guilty of parliamen tary misconduct and if suspended from attending sittings, they would be denied the op portunity of performing their most important duty that of representing their constituents in parliament Any suspension therefore penalizes not only the MPs but also citizens. Natural justice is important to protect us against the arbitrary and unrestrained use of power by those with authority, such as employ ers, law enforcement, or government agencies. Without it, our constitutional rights and free doms stand on shaky ground
THELAWANDYOU
Article 40 (1) in our Constituton states: “ every person in Guyana is entitled to the basic right to a happy, creative and productive life, free from hunger, ignorance, and want” What must it mean for us in Guyana to be free from want? It must mean to be liberated to live our best lives and to be our best selves No longer must we be imprisoned by the struggle to meet basic needs, such as finding food, shelter, and dignity No longer must we live in fear of the uncertainties of daily survival We must be liberated to live (in the words of Article 40 (1)) “ a happy, creative and productive life” As such, we must be em powered also to follow our aspirations, discover our talents, and develop our skills Our constitutional right to work, rest, recreation and leisure must also make sense Freedom from want therefore activates and gives substance to most of the other human rights granted each of us by our Constitution The aspiration in Article 40 (1) is fundamental to self development and nation building The PNCR party is commited to realizsing this goal. But it cannot do so without the support of the people to put it in government.
