THE Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has officially written Government about the appointment of a new Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

In a letter to Minister of State Joseph Harmon, dated November 15, 2016, the Parliamentary Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira informed that Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, wanted to know whether President David Granger would formally write to him, inviting him to submit his six nominees as required by Article 161 of the Constitution, or whether the President would initiate a preliminary formal meeting with him to discuss the appointment of a new Chairman.

“In the light of this development and the fast approaching deadline, I am writing you, on behalf of the Leader of the Opposition, seeking to be advised on the approach His Excellency President David Granger Government intends to take in filling the vacancy, as provided for in Article 161 of the Guyana Constitution,” the Opposition stated in its letter.

Dr. Steve Surujbally, who has been at the helm of GECOM since 2001, had formally informed President Granger and the Opposition Leader of his intention to demit office on November 30, 2016. Last week, however, he told Guyana Chronicle that circumstances may not permit him to step down as planned.

“That was my intention, (but) there are developments and occurrences that dictate that I might have to stay on for a week or two,” Dr. Surujbally had told this newspaper.

While accepting Dr. Surujbally’s position, Government has insisted on him creating the platform for a seamless transition of authority to his successor. Government has reportedly made it clear to Dr. Surujbally that effective on the day he demits office, the new chairman will be assuming office (swearing in of the new chairman). Additionally, Government has insisted that all arrangements and decisions be made to ensure that the secretariat is stable, and that the work programme of the commission continues seamlessly.