By Mark DaCosta- Parliamentarian and Leader of the Forward Guyana Movement, Amanza Walton-Desir denounced the actions of the Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, regarding ongoing legal cases that she asserts should be heard rather than blocked.
In a fervent address, she highlighted a troubling trend where the government, through the AG, is attempting to circumvent judicial scrutiny while simultaneously undermining the constitutional rights of citizens. “An Attorney General should defend the Constitution, not act as a political shield,” Walton-Desir stated emphatically, encapsulating the frustration felt by many within the legal and activist communities.
This tumultuous situation arises against the backdrop of Commissioner Ms. Fisher’s petition, which seeks to escalate her case to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). Despite publicly claiming that such cases “lack merit,” the AG’s swift and covert actions to inhibit Fisher’s progress to higher courts have raised significant alarm. Observers of our justice system fear that this is more than mere legal formality; it appears to be a deliberate attempt to prevent accountability while the AG and the government sidestep crucial legal avenues
The Fisher case highlights deeper, unresolved issues surrounding GECOM’s administration of the electoral process. Fisher’s challenge — which argued that the FGM and Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) parties were unlawfully excluded from ballots in several regions — pointed to concerns about unequal treatment, inconsistent application of the Representation of the People Act, and barriers facing smaller or newer political parties.
Although the courts ultimately upheld GECOM’s position, the dispute exposed lingering questions about transparency, fairness, and whether the Commission’s procedures genuinely facilitate broad democratic participation. These concerns continue to shape public debate over GECOM’s credibility and its handling of the 2025 election cycle.
According to Walton-Desir the Attorney General has been quietly rushing to the Court of Appeal to block Ms Fisher’s application to go to the CCJ. Walton-Desir pointed out that the government is once again employing “procedural tricks,” a tactic that stifles discussion and halts meaningful action before it can materialise.
Walton-Desir’s appeals reflect a larger call for fair treatment and justice within our country. “FGM will continue to push for accountability and fairness. Guyanese deserve nothing less,” she declared, emphasising that the fight against injustice is far from over.
The FGM group and its supporters argue that these legal cases are not merely procedural; they represent a fundamental struggle for justice and the upholding of rights enshrined within our constitution.
Moreover, this situation is emblematic of a broader set of issues entwined with governance under the current administration. The administration’s unwillingness to transparently address legal grievances has elicited growing unease among citizens who expect their leaders to uphold the rule of law. The ongoing tension reflects deep-seated frustrations towards a government perceived to be prioritising political manoeuvring over the rights and wellbeing of its people.
As stakeholders in our democracy, it is crucial that citizens remain vigilant and engaged. The apparent attempt to obstruct judicial processes raises significant questions regarding the commitment of our leaders to uphold civil liberties. The FGM initiative’s determination to pursue accountability underscores the necessity for civic platforms that champion fairness and justice for all.
The legal landscape in our nation is currently fraught with challenges, and the actions of the Attorney General serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between governance and the rule of law, say analysts. For citizens who cherish democracy and justice, this ongoing struggle is paramount. Activists like Amanza Walton-Desir exemplify the continued push for accountability, reminding us all that safeguarding our rights requires unwavering commitment and vigilant advocacy.
As the landscape continues to evolve, it remains imperative for all Guyanese to stay informed and engaged, ensuring that the principles of equity and justice remain at the forefront of national discourse.
