What is the joint political opposition up to? PDF Print E-mail
Written by SYLVAN BLACKMAN
Monday, 16 January 2012 00:10
NOW, what is the joint political opposition up to? This question is asked in light of President Donald Ramotar’s disclosure during his first press conference as President that the parties have not to date sent their representatives to consult with the Ministry of Finance over the 2012 budgetary estimates, despite an agreement that they do so. This I find rather perplexing, and more so surprising given their several statements relative to their views about the economic development and financial affairs of the country.
As has been the case, it has been customary for the ministry to meet with the various stakeholders to discuss matters of interest with regard to the national budget, this year being no exception. However, a point to note is that, President Ramotar has made it very clear that the budget is his “government’s responsibility, and not Granger’s”, the latter, in reference to an offer from APNU’s leader for the opposition parties to be involved in the actual crafting of the budget.
Such an offer, probably well-meaning, is not practical, for the very simple reason that the nation has a duly elected government, with a very competent minister and corps of advisers to fashion such a document, and even more important is the fact that the state is not in the throes of any extreme, imminent danger, such as a threat to its sovereignty, that would warrant such an intrusion from the opposition. One wonders had they been elected, whether they would have allowed such a request from the PPP/C?
Despite having to lead a minority government, President Donald Ramotar is showing quite clearly that the executive will lead the nation’s business, and will continue to do so, regardless. Of course, his offer of working with the political opposition still stands. All must recognise, even the former, that it is the only way forward at this most critical juncture of the nation’s history.
Source: Guyana Chronicle
Written by SYLVAN BLACKMAN
Monday, 16 January 2012 00:10
NOW, what is the joint political opposition up to? This question is asked in light of President Donald Ramotar’s disclosure during his first press conference as President that the parties have not to date sent their representatives to consult with the Ministry of Finance over the 2012 budgetary estimates, despite an agreement that they do so. This I find rather perplexing, and more so surprising given their several statements relative to their views about the economic development and financial affairs of the country.
As has been the case, it has been customary for the ministry to meet with the various stakeholders to discuss matters of interest with regard to the national budget, this year being no exception. However, a point to note is that, President Ramotar has made it very clear that the budget is his “government’s responsibility, and not Granger’s”, the latter, in reference to an offer from APNU’s leader for the opposition parties to be involved in the actual crafting of the budget.
Such an offer, probably well-meaning, is not practical, for the very simple reason that the nation has a duly elected government, with a very competent minister and corps of advisers to fashion such a document, and even more important is the fact that the state is not in the throes of any extreme, imminent danger, such as a threat to its sovereignty, that would warrant such an intrusion from the opposition. One wonders had they been elected, whether they would have allowed such a request from the PPP/C?
Despite having to lead a minority government, President Donald Ramotar is showing quite clearly that the executive will lead the nation’s business, and will continue to do so, regardless. Of course, his offer of working with the political opposition still stands. All must recognise, even the former, that it is the only way forward at this most critical juncture of the nation’s history.
Source: Guyana Chronicle