By Dr Bertrand Ramcharan
Seventh Chancellor of the University of Guyana; Barrister-at-Law; Honorary Commissioner of the International Commission of Jurists
I am aware that constitutional revision in Guyana is a matter of high politics – and the political parties have not yet shown their hands. Yes, I know that the Commission on Constitutional Reform has not yet met. But I am mindful of the spirit of Article 31 of the Constitution, which provides that “It is the duty of the State to protect the just rights and interests of citizens abroad.” This citizen seeks to give back in love to the Dear Land of Guyana.
The Constitution of Guyana is now in its fifth decade and could do with some updating on matters such as: (1) Rendering its provisions gender-neutral: ‘He/She’; (2) Finessing references to socialism and ‘socialist legality’. (3) Increasing fines, such as the fine of two thousand, seven hundred and fifty dollars per day indicated in article 58; and (4) Updating the guarantees of fundamental rights to bring them in line with contemporary international norms. The first three items could be taken care of relatively easily – or over time, if preferred. The fourth item will require longer deliberations and could also be dealt with over time.