Bar Association calls for appointment of Chancellor, Chief Justice

The Guyana Bar Association (GBA) has reiterated its concerns about the prolonged lack of permanent appointments to the positions of Chancellor and Chief Justice, describing the situation as “untenable.” This issue, which has persisted for over two decades, was highlighted during the opening of Law Year 2025, where the Bar Association’s President, Kamal Ramkarran, called for immediate resolution.
Since 2017, Justices Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Roxane George have been serving in acting capacities as Chancellor and Chief Justice, respectively. Ramkarran stressed the pressing need for their confirmation, emphasising the detrimental impact of the ongoing uncertainty on the judiciary.
He further expressed confidence in the qualifications and competence of the acting officials.

Chapter 127 (1) of the Constitution grants the President the authority to appoint the Chancellor and Chief Justice. However, these appointments require agreement from the Leader of the Opposition—a stipulation that has consistently resulted in political deadlock. This impasse has now spanned over two decades, affecting four successive presidential administrations.
Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards and Justice Roxane George were appointed in acting capacities in 2017.
The last confirmed Chancellor of the Judiciary was Justice Desiree Bernard, who served until 2005 before the constitutional changes took effect.
Attorney General (AG) Anil Nandlall, SC, along with past Bar Association President Pauline Chase, has previously advocated for a reevaluation of the constitutional provisions governing these appointments. They have suggested this issue be addressed during the country’s much-anticipated constitutional review process.

Independence
During her address at the opening of the Law Year 2025, Chief Justice Roxane George also touched on the critical need for an adequately resourced judiciary, noting its importance in maintaining the independence of the judiciary.
“I nevertheless reiterate that an adequately resourced judiciary is a necessity, as I urge full adherence to the constitutional requirements of Article 122A regarding its funding, and therefore independence,” she said.
Chief Justice George highlighted the judiciary’s commitment to overcoming challenges, including heavy caseloads and a lack of resources, as they continue to push for modernisation and efficiency. Her remarks underscored the urgent need for decisive action to address systemic issues, including the prolonged delays in confirming the top judicial appointments.