By Mark DaCosta- In a surprising development in the matter of the ongoing strike by teachers, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo recently made an announcement that the government is prepared to deduct money from teachers’ salaries, even as the matter is currently before the courts. This revelation, according to one attorney-at-law, raises concerns about the government preempting the judicial process.
Jagdeo confidently stated, “We believe based on what we have seen, the precedent, that this matter will be determined in favour of the principle that has long been established and the deductions, if taken at that time, would be harsher for the teachers.” However, this assertion has drawn criticism from the legal expert who said that discussing potential outcomes while the case is ongoing is inappropriate and undermines the court’s authority. The practising Guyanese attorney asked not to be not identified.
The teachers’ strike, initiated by the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) on February 5, 2024, aimed to negotiate increased salaries and allowances through a proposed multi-year agreement.
The government’s response, marked by Minister Priya Manickchand declaring the strike illegal, escalated tensions. Matters worsened when Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain issued a directive to cut teachers’ salaries, a move deemed in contempt of the interim court order preventing such deductions. The court, on Day-14 of the strike, had issued orders preventing the government from cutting salaries.
Jagdeo’s recent statement, however, challenges the court’s jurisdiction and suggests a predetermined stance by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government. The practising attorney argues that such comments undermine the principle of separation of powers and the impartiality of the judiciary.
The legal perspective on this matter is clear. The court issued temporary orders, and the substantive case is set for a full hearing and determination from March 20, 2024. Jagdeo’s preemptive statement, therefore, goes against the principle of allowing the legal process to unfold without external interference.
Respect for the court’s decisions is crucial in upholding the rule of law and maintaining public trust. Jagdeo’s assertion that the government will continue collecting information on absent teachers, despite the court’s orders, raises questions about the administration’s commitment to the legal process.
It is important to note that the ongoing struggle between teachers and the government transcends a mere labour dispute; it is a battle for educational justice, as highlighted by several political analysts and social commentators. The demands of educators extend beyond salary increases, encompassing issues of fair representation, dignity, and respect.
As the court proceedings continue, the government’s responsibility is to engage in meaningful dialogue with the teachers, honour the constitution, and uphold democratic principles. The educators, who play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future, deserve fair treatment and equitable solutions, one analyst wrote.
Jagdeo’s recent statement on the deduction of teachers’ salaries before the court’s final decision is a matter of concern, says the attorney. It not only raises questions about the government’s respect for the legal process but also challenges the principles of impartiality and separation of powers.
