As Guyana approaches its 2025 general and regional elections, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to maintaining democracy and upholding the rule of law.
During Monday’s opening ceremony of the 46th Conference of the Caribbean, the Americas, and the Atlantic Region of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, President Ali highlighted the vital role of free and fair elections as the bedrock of a healthy democratic society.
He emphasized that the integrity of free and fair elections, which must genuinely reflect the people’s will, is the cornerstone of parliamentary democracy.
Reflecting on Guyana’s past difficulties in adhering to democratic values, President Ali acknowledged that these challenges have been instrumental in shaping a stronger democratic system today.
He also recognized the significant contributions of Guyana’s international partners and organizations, including the United Kingdom and the European Union (EU), in supporting the country’s democratic journey.
“It is common knowledge that Guyana’s political evolution has been marred by the perversion of democratic rule for almost three decades, followed by the restoration of democracy and then an aborted attempt to subvert democratic elections,” he stated.
President Ali further explained that threats to democracy are closely tied to the security and stability of the economy, highlighting the critical importance of upholding these principles.
“During those challenging days, years, and decades, when democracy came under threat and became non-existent, Guyana’s economy faltered. Poverty deepened, and outward migration intensified. Our economy went into a tailspin,” he recalled.
According to the President, the political resolution to this situation required advocating for a return to democratic principles through free and fair elections and a renewed focus on development.
He noted that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s return to office in 1992 marked a significant turning point for Guyana, ushering in a period of more firmly entrenched parliamentary democracy.
“Our experience underscores a fundamental truth. Democracy is not just a political system; it is the engine that drives development, and that is what we must understand. Democracy is not a political commitment. Democracy is not confined to [any] political definition. Democracy is that engine that drives development,” the President stated.
He also highlighted the crucial role of parliaments in safeguarding democratic values, which requires active participation and collective effort.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips emphasized the government’s efforts to strengthen parliamentary institutions, ensuring they are robust, inclusive, and responsive to the people’s needs.
“The PPP/C Administration remains steadfast in its commitment to embracing the core tenets of democracy. That is transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and the rule of law. We recognize that the strength of our democracy is directly linked to the strength of our parliamentary institutions,” Prime Minister Phillips stated.
He detailed several initiatives that have improved the functioning of the country’s parliament, including enhancing legislative processes to allow for greater scrutiny and debate, fostering a culture of bipartisanship, and ensuring full access to parliamentary proceedings.
The conference, held at the Umana Yana in Kingston, Georgetown, runs until September 7 and gathers parliamentarians and clerks from various regions to discuss the theme, “Democracy: Challenges Facing Modern Parliaments.” Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr. Ashni Singh; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC; and Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, along with other cabinet ministers and members of the diplomatic corps, were also in attendance.