Columnist, Freddie Kissoon, wondered aloud in a recent column whether I supported the view that the vacancy on the Guyana Elections Commission should be filled by the AFC. The answer is easy--Yes. I think that both the APNU and the AFC should be guided by the principle of inclusivity and national consensus. If the PPP is not ready for national consensus, then it is incumbent on the two opposition parties to set the example by placing that principle at the center of their political behavior. As the bigger entity, the APNU has to lead the way in this regard. So I do not see how the appointment of a third PNC person would advance the cause of national consensus.
Having said the above, I understand the politics on this issue. I can understand the APNU’s skepticism about agreeing to an AFC nominee, given the not so pleasant experience with the late Robert Williams, who did not always stand with the opposition side. Hence there is the temptation to go for someone whose loyalty can be guaranteed.
If they do not choose an AFC person, a compromise candidate should be a non PNC-non/non-AFC person acceptable to both parties. In this regard a person from one of the smaller parties in the APNU or a so-called Civil Society person would suffice. There are several worthy candidates in this category. But my first choice would be the AFC person.
Dr. David Hinds
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