DELEGATIONS from the joint opposition, A Partnership For National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance For Change (AFC), met on Thursday to begin discussions on a framework of cooperation in the National Assembly where the parties together hold the majority. This is the first time in Guyana’s history that the opposition holds the majority in the parliament, opening up the possibility of shaping a new political landscape.
Given the installation of the new Government headed by President Ramotar, the joint opposition is committed to representing the interests of all Guyanese regardless of race, creed or political affiliation, they said in a statement yesterday.
The grouping is committed to finding common ground and putting Guyana first.
The team that met yesterday included APNU Presidential Candidate David Granger, Prime Ministerial Candidate Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, Campaign Manager Joe Harmon and Leadership Council Member Basil Williams, along with AFC Presidential Candidate Khemraj Ramjattan, Prime Ministerial candidate Raphael Trotman, Executive Member Cathy Hughes, Dr. Richard Van West Charles and Clayton Hall.
In a cordial atmosphere, the parties’ representatives discussed the process and options for the selection of the Speaker of the House, the reconfiguration of a range of parliamentary committees and reaffirmed their commitment to a progressive parliamentary agenda that would impact positively on the lives of all Guyanese.
The meeting was adjourned after two hours of deliberations with a firm commitment to finalise discussions on the issues identified at a follow-up meeting slated for early next week.