Upholding the Constitution and the Rule of Law

Jan 03, 2026 Letters

Dear Editor,

I write out of deep concern regarding the recent swearing-in of the seven-member Teachers Service Commission by President Irfaan Ali in the absence of a constituted parliamentary opposition.

The Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana is clear in both spirit and intent: constitutional commissions are meant to reflect balance, inclusion, and shared authority. The involvement of both government and opposition is not ceremonial—it is a safeguard designed to prevent unilateral control and to preserve public confidence in our democratic institutions.

Proceeding with such appointments while Parliament remains incomplete and the opposition leader has not been duly sworn in raises serious constitutional questions. More importantly, it risks setting a precedent where legality is reduced to convenience, rather than adherence to the rule of law.

Guyana is not governed by executive discretion alone. Our democracy rests on constitutional order, consultation, and respect for checks and balances. Any action that appears to sidestep these principles weakens trust and fuels the perception of increasingly authoritative governance.

Teachers, like all public servants, deserve a Service Commission whose legitimacy is beyond question—one formed through full constitutional compliance and broad-based participation. This moment calls not for haste, but for restraint, respect, and recommitment to democratic norms.

The Constitution must not only be quoted when convenient; it must be upheld consistently, especially by those entrusted to defend it.

Yours Sincerely,
Lorenzo Joseph
United Workers Party (UWP)
Region 10

Discover more from Kaieteur News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Constitution, Letters, Lorenzo Joseph, rule of law, United Workers Party

Latest News