RESTORING THE JAGAN LEGACY AND THE ELECTORAL PROSPECTS OF THE PPP.

The annual Babu John memorial rally for Cheddi Jagan is to be held on March 3. At this time of year Jagan’s life, work and ideas are promoted by rallies, lectures, seminars and discussions. Athletic events and essay competitions are held in commemoration. While he was alive and the PPP was in opposition, there was […]

ELECTORAL REFORM.

Both the PPP and the PNCR supported the proposals for electoral reform which were recommended by the Constitution Reform Commission (“CRC”) in 2000. The CRC had recommended the retention of the proportional representation system but urged that the “electoral system should include an element of geographical representation.” While the CRC did not make any recommendations […]

THE PUBLIC PROCUREMENT COMMISSION

The Public Procurement Commission(“Commission”) was recommended by the Constitution Reform Commission (“CRC”) in 2000 as a constitutional commission. Its objective was to reduce or prevent corruption in procurement if the growing allegations were to be believed. The charges of general, widespread corruption in other areas had not yet become prominent. The CRC felt that it […]

THE PPP’s ENDURING FEARS

Critics are baffled by what is alleged to be the reluctance of the PPP to accept that it is no longer in the majority since the 2011 elections. Their analysis, at its worst, suggests that an arrogant, hungry and driven elite, determined to dominate the reins of office, seek to remain entrenched in power for […]

THE PPP AND THE CHALLENGES AHEAD

The election result and its aftermath Four successive election victories of the Peoples Progressive Party (the Party) in 1992, 1997, 2001 and 2006 were followed by the failure to obtain an absolute majority in 2011. It was unexpected and a shock and disappointment. Under the constitution the Party was entitled to the presidency and the […]