Dear Editor,
Our governance situation has developed into a state of stagnation, where no political party can dictate a policy, and, in fact, they have to work together.
This is totally alien in a system where party dictates are the norm, and, it may lead to another election, which the country cannot afford, with the possibility of a similar unsatisfactory result.
We have a parliament of elected or appointed Parliamentarians whose duty it is, or should be, to govern our country in the best interest of Guyana, regardless of any personal considerations. How can this be achieved?
Dare it be suggested that the Parliament can agree to introduce a mixed secret ballot to vote on all issues for a two-year period? This would destroy avenues of corruption; give each Parliamentarian the right to vote “conscience” with the responsibility to study each bill for the pros and cons for Guyana.
During the two-year trial period each party can be judged by the electorate as to the quality of their work, the bills introduced, the standard of debate and such matters. After two years Parliament can vote again on the continuance. However this still leaves the executive powers of the President.
There is a call for shared governance at the Presidential level. This will have to be addressed by a responsible Parliamentary investigation and consultation. There are models but little cohesive discussion.
It is a challenge for the parties to accept this but we can dream.
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address supplied)
