Although President David Granger has officially proclaimed that the 11th Parliament will convene next Wednesday, there is yet to be an announcement of who the coalition government has selected to be the new Speaker of the National Assembly.
According to the Cummingsburg Accord that was signed by APNU and the AFC ahead of their joint elections campaign, the Speaker of the House will be mutually selected by both parties from independent members of civil society.
While prominent attorneys Stephen Fraser and Roysdale Forde have both been nominated for the post, it is not clear if one has been selected for the position.
A reliable source informed that Forde has been selected but this could not be confirmed by other sources.
Forde, who operates his practice from Hadfield Street in Georgetown, has also gained prominence over the years.
He has represented persons both in civil and criminal proceedings with much success. Sources close to him say that if chosen he would accept the position. Stabroek News was told recently that while this will be a new experience for him, he would welcome it with open arms.
Fraser is a managing partner in the Fraser, Housty & Yearwood law firm and has a wealth of knowledge and experience. The source said Fraser would also be eligible for consideration for appointment as a senior counsel. Fraser specialises in civil and commercial law and is well respected in the legal fraternity.
Previously, Stabroek News was told that former Justice of Appeal Claudette Singh was APNU’s choice.
Meanwhile, Parliament Office yesterday announc-ed that Granger had issued the proclamation for the convening of Parliament, in keeping with Article 69 (1) of the Constitution, which stipulates that each session of Parliament shall be held at the place within Guyana and begin at the time that the President appoints by proclamation.
Next Wednesday’s sitting will be held exactly seven months after former President Donald Ramotar controversially prorogued Parliament on November 10th to avoid his minority government having to face a motion of no-confidence.
The business of the sitting will include the election of the Speaker and Deputy-Speaker of the House and the swearing in of all Members of Parliament, a Parliament Office release said.
The sitting will then be suspended to facilitate the arrival of the President, who will inspect the Guard of Honour in the forecourt of the Public Buildings compound and then address the National Assembly.
Additionally, Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs will meet with the new Members of Parliament next Monday to brief them on parliamentary practices and procedures and to discuss their privileges and entitlements.
