Guyana: Ali sees no need to consult new Opposition Leader on Chief Justice, Chancellor

President Irfaan Ali expressed that he does not see the necessity to hold consultations with the newly appointed Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed regarding the appointments of a chief justice and a chancellor of the judiciary. During an inquiry by Demerara Waves Online News, Dr. Ali indicated that his previous position, as outlined in a letter to the former opposition leader, proposing the appointments of the Chancellor and the Chief Justice, remains unchanged.

When questioned about whether this stance had been communicated to Mr. Mohamed, Dr. Ali referred to it as a “grey area that we have to navigate carefully.” He emphasized that the government has continued its operations following the election and that their recommendations concerning the Chancellor and Chief Justice have not altered.

In response, Mr. Mohamed criticized the President’s assertion that the previous correspondence with former opposition leader Aubrey Norton was no longer valid. He stated, “My position is to confirm the Chancellor and the Chief Justice; he must have consultation with the Opposition Leader. Mr. Norton is not the Opposition Leader. He needs to write me or call me and mention that he wants to meet on whatever issue. We can’t go with that letter.”

Mr. Mohamed also mentioned that he is contemplating legal action to compel the President to engage in consultations. He remarked that the President should conduct such discussions regardless of personal differences, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for the benefit of the country.

In October 2025, shortly after the general elections, President Ali had sought support from Mr. Norton for the appointments of Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire as Chancellor and Justice Navindra Singh as Chief Justice. However, Mr. Norton did not provide his approval before stepping down as opposition leader.

Mr. Mohamed has not yet committed to supporting the appointments of Chief Justice Singh and Chancellor George-Wiltshire, stating he would need to revisit the matter. The President affirmed his commitment to upholding constitutional requirements in his role.

Additionally, the government has distanced itself from Mr. Mohamed and his father following sanctions imposed by the U.S. Treasury Department, which accused them of tax evasion related to gold exports. They are currently contesting a U.S. extradition request.

Source: demerarawaves.com