Speaker rejects claims of deliberate delay in opposition leader election, cites constitutional and legal concerns
Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir, has pushed back against mounting criticism that he deliberately delayed the election of a Leader of the Opposition, insisting that his actions were guided by constitutional responsibilities and concerns about Parliament’s integrity.
Speaking in an interview with another media outlet, Nadir said there was no intentional effort on his part to stall the process, explaining that several serious considerations had to be weighed before convening the meeting to elect an opposition leader. “I did not delay the election of the Leader of the Opposition,” the Speaker stated.
“There are many considerations that must be examined, particularly when the issue before us involves a fugitive offender and the implications such a situation can have for Parliament and the country.”
The Speaker explained that his approach required examining examples from other democracies, as well as Guyana’s own constitutional framework, noting that legislatures worldwide have grappled with similar circumstances. He pointed out that Guyana’s Constitution already outlines offences for which a person can be disqualified from holding a seat in the National Assembly if convicted.
According to the Speaker, the current issue goes beyond questions of guilt or innocence and instead centres on the legal meaning of being a fugitive. “A fugitive is not about conviction,” Nadir explained. “If you are charged and you fail to appear before a court, even for a simple traffic offence, you are a fugitive. You are required to submit yourself to the legal process. It is not optional.”
Further, he noted that when such matters cross borders, they can escalate into international legal concerns, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Addressing criticism that he had overstepped his role or injected personal judgment into the process, Nadir maintained that the Constitution does not prescribe a specific timeframe for the election of a Leader of the Opposition and that his responsibility is to act within the rule of law. “There may be moral views in the court of public opinion,” he said, “but my duty is to rely on the Constitution, which is the highest law. It says I must convene a meeting, and that is exactly what I intend to do.”
Additionally, the Speaker addressed concerns that electing a fugitive as Opposition Leader could damage the credibility of Guyana’s Parliament and potentially stain the country’s international reputation. While making clear that Members of Parliament enjoy no immunity outside the National Assembly, Nadir said the symbolic impact of such an election cannot be ignored. “These are high offices,” he said. “If someone holding such a position is facing serious legal issues, especially outside of Guyana, it reflects not just on the individual but on the country as a whole.”
Nadir suggested that Guyana may eventually need to consider legislative reforms to address situations where individuals facing serious charges seek to occupy senior political offices, noting that several countries have already taken such steps.
He ended by reaffirming his commitment to impartiality and to enforcing the rules of the House without fear or favour, regardless of who is involved. “I have the Constitution, the standing orders, and the rules,” Nadir said. “Whether it is a minister or an ordinary member, I will act. I intend to continue serving this nation to the best of my ability.”
