PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar announced yesterday that Former President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo will be the Chairman of the newly-created National Economic Council (NEC).The president explained that he decided to establish this council in order “to bring greater support to my government in enhancing and accelerating our transformational and modernisation agenda.”

Former President Jagdeo will also be assisting in the crafting of the PPP/C Manifesto

He further stated that even though he is proud of the progress Guyana has made thus far, he believes that greater focus and attention can lead to enhanced performance in many crucial areas.
The president noted that the economic transformation and modernisation of Guyana are priorities that require the skills of every bright and experienced mind, as well as an enabling framework.

It is in this regard, he said that he has asked Former President Bharrat Jagdeo to fill the role of heading the council, as he has the necessary criteria, seeing that “he served for a number of years as the pivot in the modernisation of our economy, and led in the crafting of many strategies, including the National Development Strategy, the Poverty Reduction Strategy and the Low Carbon

Development Strategy…”

He added that as the previous leader of the country, Mr. Jagdeo served for over a decade and through a most crucial and rewarding period. This then means that he now has much to offer and “he has kindly agreed to assume this responsibility as Chair of the National Economic Council.”
The president added that Mr. Jagdeo has an excellent and growing international profile and so his work will be most useful.
President Ramotar pointed out that this newly formed council will, among other things, “assist in conceptualising and crafting of economic strategies and initiatives, as well as support, in the oversight in the implementation of various projects and strategic interventions.”
“The Council, I anticipate can give impetus to the already successful efforts of ensuring that my government continues to be responsive to the socio-economic needs of our people,” he added.
President Ramotar removed possible controversy to his announcement by detailing that Mr. Jagdeo has made clear his non-interest in any constitutional post, “so his Chair of this Council (being a non-constitutional one) would ensure that we tap his vast experience and competence, in making our country more prosperous.” It was pointed out too that the Former President will be offering his services on a pro-bono (free) basis.
It is expected that the work of the council will commence almost immediately, and that the composition and terms of reference of the council will be made public. The president highlighted too that the Former President would also be assisting in the crafting of the PPP/C Manifesto.