CCJ Upholds Legitimacy of Parliamentary Secretaries in Guyana

The Caribbean Court of Justice upheld an appeal from Guyana’s Attorney General regarding the appointments of Vikash Ramkissoon and Sarah Browne as parliamentary secretaries. The CCJ overturned previous court decisions, confirming the legality of their appointments and emphasizing the importance of constitutional clarity. Following the ruling, the Attorney General hailed the decision as a triumph for constitutionalism in Guyana.

On Wednesday, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), situated in Trinidad and Tobago, upheld an appeal presented by the Attorney General of Guyana and two representatives from the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) concerning the appointment of two parliamentary secretaries. In a unanimous decision, the CCJ overturned previous determinations made by the Guyana High Court and the Court of Appeal, thereby affirming the lawful appointments of Vikash Ramkissoon and Sarah Browne as parliamentary secretaries in the National Assembly. The legality of Browne and Ramkissoon’s membership in the Assembly had been contested by Christopher Jones, the Opposition Chief Whip from the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), claiming their affiliation as PPP candidates disqualified them. The Guyana Court of Appeal had supported the High Court’s ruling which declared their assembly participation unlawful; however, the CCJ found merit in the appellants’ argument, stating that both individuals were presumptively qualified for election as they swore to their eligibility when presented as candidates for the PPP/C. The court emphasized that the case addressed a constitutional challenge that had previously caused difficulties, making its resolution essential for public governance. As a result, the CCJ vacated the previous court orders, asserting that each party would bear its own costs at this level and the courts below. Anil Nandlall, the Attorney General of Guyana, expressed approval of the ruling, noting that it signified a victory for constitutionalism and provided a definitive interpretation of the relevant constitutional provisions.

The constitutional framework of Guyana stipulates the qualifications necessary for members of the National Assembly, and disputes regarding such qualifications can lead to significant legal challenges. The specific case addressed by the CCJ involved two parliamentary secretaries whose election was questioned by the opposition on grounds of their party affiliation. Legal interpretations by the High Court and Court of Appeal initially deemed their participation unlawful, demonstrating the complexity of parliamentary agreements and the need for explicit legal clarity in such matters.

In summary, the CCJ’s ruling reinstates Vikash Ramkissoon and Sarah Browne’s legitimate roles as parliamentary secretaries in Guyana, affirming the importance of clear interpretations of constitutional provisions concerning parliamentary qualifications. The decision resolves ongoing uncertainties, underscores the court’s role in safeguarding constitutional integrity, and highlights the necessity for precise legal standards within the political framework of the nation.

Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com