Dear Editor,
The GECOM Chairman, Mr James Patterson initially made headlines when President Granger triggered widespread criticism by trampling standard democratic practices to appoint him to such a sensitive and demanding position.
The public not only complained about the immorality surrounding such an appointment, but they also griped over the fact that Mr Patterson is way too advanced in age to effectively serve. Mr Patterson is almost 90 years old and realistically, it would be difficult for him to be up to speed to serve in such a capacity. The public has rightly viewed his appointment as a bad one with serious consequences for Guyana. But President Granger does not care a hoot. President Granger’s interest lies solely in deriv-ing political benefits from such an unfair transaction. What else?
Unsurprisingly, Mr Patterson is back again in the headlines. This time, he is stalling election prepara-tions and creating uncertainty at GECOM because he is on a prolonged sick leave. Many even feared that Mr Patterson is faking his illness to help APNU/PNC/AFC because Government has a slim chance of winning the elections if it were to be held in two months’ time.
Guyanese must remember that President Granger has tremendous influence at GECOM because he appointed Mr Patterson. GECOM can’t be independent. Amid such unreliable and frustrating circum-stances, President Granger informed the nation that elections can only be held when GECOM is ready. President Granger’s position is vague and unfair, only adding uncertainty and ignoring the problems at GECOM. GECOM may never be ready because its Chairman isn’t reporting for work. A date for the elections needs to be fixed because GECOM has to accommodate elections no later than is required by the Constitution.
Mr Patterson must drop his excuses and live up to his commitment to serve. And this means that at the very least, he must immediately show up for work or immediately resign. His actions are unrea-sonable and unfair. The clock is ticking.
In sum, this narrative exposes the undemocratic and dubious operating procedures routinely used by President Granger to trample his people for political gains. Obviously, President Granger fails to con-nect the hefty price tag that comes with his leadership and how it effectively brought his Government down. With this situation on hand, Guyanese now have a chance to free themselves from such a lead-er at the polls. President Granger needs to play it fair. The world is watching. And GECOM needs to be ready in a timely manner.
Sincerely,
Annie Baliram