Jagdeo dismisses GHRA claims of partisan control over constitutional reform

Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo on Wednesday dismissed claims by the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) that the ongoing constitutional reform process is being “partisanly hijacked”.

Dr Jagdeo said the recently established Constitutional Reform Commission (CRC) was created in line with the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government’s 2020 manifesto commitment and follows an inclusive model used during his presidency. The commission comprises 10 members from civil society, five from government, and five from the opposition.

“How could we have a partisan hijack when the commission is made up of 5-5-10?” Dr Jagdeo questioned, affirming that “This structure ensures broad national participation.”

He also criticised the GHRA for remaining silent during the former APNU+AFC administration, which he said failed to deliver a report on its own promised constitutional reform process.

Dr Jagdeo added that the current Commission is fully empowered to conduct consultations and receive proposals from all Guyanese.