Member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Member of Parliament and Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde, appearing on Mark Benschop’s “Straight Up” show last Friday evening, said it is important the constitution of the PNCR be respected and Biennial Congress, which is due this year, be held. This statement was made in response to Benschop who is known for his lean-in style of questioning.
Responding to speculations and requests by some to have the congress postponed to next year, Forde, in acknowledging hearing similar sentiments, made known the congress, constitutionally, should be held no later than December 2023. The Party’s 21st Biennial Delegates Congress was held December 18, 2021.
As per the Party’s Constitution, Rule 15, ‘Delegates Congress,’ the “Biennial Delegates’ Congress (1) The supreme authority of the Party shall be the Biennial Delegates Congress, which shall be held at such time and place every two (2) years as the General Council or the Central Executive Committee may decide. For the avoidance of doubt, the supremacy of the Congress means that the Congress has the right to review or to order a review of and decision taken by any other forum, organ or committee of the Party.”
The senior counsel also made news that evening and may have ignited attention or put to rest speculations, by party supporters and members, about running for the leadership of the PNCR. Seemingly comfortable in his response, and also known for his forthrightness, when further questioned by Benschop of his intention to run, declared, if nominated he would seriously consider.
When Village Voice News caught up with him to follow up on a likely run, Forde, who is also Shadow Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs confirmed if nominated by members, he is likely to give serious consideration to also serving the party and country as leader.
He told this publication he was proud of his party’s democratic practices, where any member in the party can feel free to contest any position in the party if nominated. “Contesting is a privilege in the party. The members are free to nominate and are free to contest for any position.”
Taking a swipe at the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) that hasn’t held congress since 2017, Forde said, “unlike the PPP/C, the PNCR has a long track record of leadership challenges and has consistently held congresses. We must ensure there is a clear distinction between the two parties by upholding this.”
When questioned by this publication about the current party leader, Aubrey Norton, acquiescing to rumblings by some to postpone congress, the senior counsel said he does not believe Norton would accept flouting the constitution. “The constitution is the law of the party, and it should be respected and protected. I have every reason to believe Mr. Norton believes this too and would ensure the party acts accordingly.”
Forde said it is also important to note it is the PNCR which has given Guyana its present constitution and constantly expresses concern about the PPP/C non-compliance and the dangers pose for governance and relations among citizens flouting the laws. “At the party level, we have a greater responsibility to set the example for what must obtain at the national level, failing which there will be an indictment on the party as it relates to our ability to function in keeping with the laws and to hold government accountable.” We cannot be preaching one thing and practicing another thing, he contended.
