Dear Editor,
I write regarding the recent statement by the Speaker of Guyana’s parliament, Mr Manzoor Nadir, in the YouTube video titled “BREAKING NEWS || Announcement by Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Manzoor Nadir”.
In my view, Mr Nadir’s rebuke of the senior-most diplomats of the A B C and EU countries, especially the Canadian High Commissioner and the US Ambassador, for calling for the election of the Leader of the Opposition, was inappropriate, unjustified, and injudicious at this critical period when Guyana needs international support in its border controversy with Venezuela. As well, Mr Nadir seems to forget that had the predecessor of these diplomats not taken a firm stand, at great risk to their personal safety and security, in opposing and exposing the attempted electoral fraud in 2020, the PPP might not have gained the government and he the speakership. By gaining power in 2020, the PPP was able to implement plans and policies causing it to retain power in 2025 and allowing Mr Nadir to be the Speaker once again. At this time he may wish to heed the Guyanese saying “never burn the bridge you cross on”.
Also, I believe the Speaker’s attack on Mr Azruddin Mohamed, Leader of the WIN party and presumptive Leader of the Opposition, was inappropriate and injudicious. Now, I wish to be clear, I do not support the picketing of the Speaker’s home. However, Mr Nadir had more than three months to declare his position on the election of the Leader of the Opposition and he refused to make a statement. In fact, he was not seen or heard from during this period. The frustration and reaction of the WIN leadership and members, while not condoned, is understandable. Past leaders of the opposition have been far more militant in pursuing what they felt was their rightful cause.
It is good to note that the Speaker will now proceed with the election of the Leader of the Opposition. However, the Speaker has already muddied the water and one can expect a great deal of acrimony when parliamentary sessions get underway.