Attorney Darren Wade has announced intentions to challenge the recent elections for the Council of the Guyana Bar Association (GBA), which took place on Friday. Wade claims that ineligible individuals were permitted to vote, violating the organization’s rules. He expressed his determination to pursue legal action, stating, “I will be going to court. I’m determined about it.”
According to Wade, the GBA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), conducted via Zoom, recorded the highest attendance in the association’s history. However, he alleged that several participants were government-employed lawyers who do not qualify for voting rights as they are not in private practice. Wade contended that despite his objections regarding voter eligibility, these lawyers were allowed to participate in the election. He noted that the results indicated a “100 percent” participation rate, raising further concerns about the voting process.
Wade referenced Section 3 of the GBA’s rules, which states that only attorneys-at-law engaged in private practice are eligible for membership, while others may hold Associate status without voting rights. The GBA’s website also confirms that associate members do not possess voting rights. Wade emphasized that private practice lawyers are those not employed by the State.
The GBA reported that the elections were contested, with nominees led by Arudranauth Gossai defeating those led by Wade. Wade’s legal challenge will focus on the alleged failure to adhere to the association’s rules. In response, former GBA President Kamal Ramkarran denied any violations and requested Wade provide evidence to support his claims. Ramkarran stated, “The Bar Association’s rules have been complied with in every regard, as always.”
Wade had previously expressed concerns about the transparency of the electoral process, sending emails regarding the identities of lawyers not invited to the AGM and requesting details about the election procedures. He raised issues about access to membership information, suggesting an uneven playing field for candidates.
The newly elected GBA Council for 2026–2027 includes Gossai as President, Ramkarran as First Vice-President, and Teni Housty as Second Vice-President. Other elected members include Yashmini Singh as Secretary, Samuel Glasgow as Treasurer, and Mohanie Anganoo as Assistant Secretary, along with several Council Members. Wade’s team included various candidates who were not successful in the election. Similar controversies have previously arisen in other associations, such as the Guyana Press Association’s elections.
Source: demerarawaves.com
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