No-confidence vote
As the implications of the no-confidence vote against the Government soak in, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has called for tolerance and respect for everyone’s political preferences while alluding to the challenges that surround the electoral process.
The ERC on Saturday said it is cognisant of the potential for sensitivities to be heightened during this period and urged that the pronouncements and actions of all are not injurious to the process of fostering harmony and good relations.
The Commission added that it wishes to encourage every Guyanese in all strata of society to demonstrate an added sense of tolerance and respect for each other and the processes which will soon unfold. “This is vital to the sustenance of our democracy and presents an opportunity for us all to collectively rise to the challenge of placing first the welfare of our nation and its people,” the ERC said in a statement.
The Commission, like many other organisations, hailed the democratic process in which the No-confidence Motion was debated, noting that democracy is thriving in Guyana. It also noted that the passage of the motion has charted Guyana into unprecedented waters in regard to the constitutional requirements.
“Our nation’s history is unambiguous in reminding us of the inherent challenges that unfortunately surrounds our electoral process. Clearly, the results of the said motion present another delicate period for our country and which uncompromisingly must be managed with utmost maturity through responsible leadership by all,” the Commission posited.
The ERC said it is pleased by the sentiments expressed by the political leaders calling for peace and stability adding that the level maturity ought to be sustained in the interest of the nation. Backtracking to the November 12 Local Government Elections, the ERC explained that it was satisfied with the transparency and peacefulness exhibited in that day. Additionally, the Commission reminded that elections are a constant fixture in a democratic nation therefore it should not be used as a process to bridge any divide rather it should be promoted without fear or favour.
“As we endeavour through these sensitive moments, all are encouraged to resist being overcome by emotions and to disallow the infusion of hatred. Let us remain mindful that all are sons and daughters of this dear land dependent on each other for the creation of the mutually desired future. It therefore becomes imperative that each play their part responsibly. The ERC, through its constitutional mandate, remains ready and committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that peace and togetherness prevail during this process,” the statement noted.
The Ethnic Relations Commission is a constitutional body established as an undertaking by the Herdmanston Accord and by Constitutional Amendment (#2) Act of 2000.
