By Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News |
Parliamentary Leader of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Dr. Terrence Campbell, has signalled his intention to vigorously challenge what he describes as the unconstitutional appointment of members to the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), indicating that the matter could ultimately be taken to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).
Speaking at a recent weekend press conference at Congress Place, Sophia, Dr. Campbell said he has already filed an application for judicial review and constitutional relief in the High Court, but is prepared to pursue the matter through every available legal avenue if necessary.
“I intend to fight this case vigorously and to pursue it all the way to the Caribbean Court of Justice if necessary,” Dr. Campbell stated.
According to the APNU Parliamentary Lead, the recent presidential appointments to the TSC breach Article 207 of the Constitution, which requires meaningful consultation with the Leader of the Opposition before certain appointments can be made. Dr. Campbell argued that the absence of a formally appointed Opposition Leader at the time does not give the President the authority to bypass or dispense with this constitutional requirement.
He further rejected the government’s reliance on the doctrine of necessity, insisting that it cannot be applied in circumstances where constitutional safeguards are clearly outlined.
“The absence of a Leader of the Opposition does not empower the President to override the Constitution,” Dr. Campbell contended.
Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union, Coretta McDonald, recently told reporters that the union proceeded with nominating Mr. Lance Baptiste as its representative to the Teaching Service Commission, despite there being no Opposition Leader in place for President Irfaan Ali to consult.
Dr. Campbell maintains that the issue at hand goes beyond individual nominees and speaks directly to the preservation of constitutional order, warning that failure to uphold established procedures could set a dangerous precedent for future appointments.
