The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has considered the rulings of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) regarding the validity of the No Confidence motion that was approved by the National Assembly on December 21, 2018 as well as the appointment of retired Justice James Patterson as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). In taking account of the rulings, the Federation could not ignore that the rulings and the attendant proceedings were probably the most-watched in our nation’s recent history.
The landmark rulings, in our view, have provided final answers to several important questions which have occupied the national space for many months now. We were heartened that the CCJ has provided, what we felt were, clear and unambiguous answers to the questions that were posed. The FITUG, recognizing that we have the answers we sought at hand, sees that we need to now put in place the necessary arrangements to address the consequences of the rulings to ensure that there is full compliance with the Constitution of Guyana.
On that score, the FITUG did see, from media reports prior to the ruling, the respective parties pledging to abide by the verdict, whatever it may have been. While we have seen general statements committing to abidance, at the same time, it appears, that acceptance, from some quarters, have now come with certain conditions. Those conditions, in our view, belie previous statements and their import should have no bearing now. We hasten to call on all concerned that the rulings be accepted without the imposition of any condition whatsoever.
We recognise too that the Justices of the CCJ have given our leaders an opportunity to arrive at a consensual way forward. The FITUG certainly looks forward to this opportunity being fully grasped and maturity, at this time, be displayed as we seek to put Guyana and its people first.
In our view, the rulings which have provided clarity now and in the future as well represent, too, a decisive victory for democracy. The Federation cannot fail to point out that the road to restoration of democracy was long and arduous and one that was paved with the struggles of the Guyanese working-people, among others. The FITUG will continue to observe the unfolding situation as we urge that respect for the rule of law remain paramount.
