Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, SC, has strongly defended Guyana’s constitution, describing it as a robust democratic framework in response to claims of autocratic behaviour made by Dr. Bertrand Ramcharan. During his weekly program, ‘Issues in the News’ Minister Nandlall reaffirmed that the constitutional architecture of Guyana fully qualifies the country as a democracy.
Guyana’s constitution outlines governance structures, electoral processes, and fundamental human rights, establishing independent institutions to safeguard these rights and ensure governmental compliance. Minister Nandlall emphasised that the constitution’s structure prevents any government from exercising absolute power, ensuring a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislature, and judiciary. He further highlighted the independence of the judiciary, whose appointment and budget processes remain free from government interference.
Minister Nandlall stated that Guyana’s constitution aligns with international standards, comparable to those of larger democracies such as the United States and India. He also pointed to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as an impartial body that has consistently affirmed the democratic nature of Guyana’s elections and governance systems.
Responding to Dr. Ramcharan’s criticism of minimal parliamentary scrutiny and opposition consultation, the Attorney General underscored the parliament’s active role in maintaining democratic processes through balanced debate between the government and opposition. He noted that since August 2020, Guyana’s parliament has passed more legislation than any other English-speaking Caribbean nation, rigorously examining government actions and expenditures.
Minister Nandlall further emphasised that, in his view, Guyana’s constitution is “more liberal, more democratic, and more advanced than any other country in the Caribbean.” He acknowledged certain democratic shortcomings in the 1980 Constitution but highlighted the reforms enacted between 1999 and 2001, including 12 amendments aimed at addressing these issues. He also called for continued discussions on further enhancing Guyana’s democratic framework.
Minister Nandlall’s statements come amid ongoing debates on the country’s governance and democratic institutions, reaffirming his belief in the strength and evolution of Guyana’s constitutional democracy.
