Dr. Roopnaraine  remains a minister within the government- Minister Harmon

DPI, Guyana, Thursday, July 20, 2017

Following widespread media reports  that Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, Leader of  the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), a coalitition partner in the A Partner for National Unity (APNU) and the Alliance for Change (AFC) Coalitition has tendered his resignation to President David Granger.

Minister of State  Joseph Harmon, today announced that Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine will remain a Minister in the government, serving as the  Minister of Public Service within the Ministry of the Presidency. He will also remain a Coalition Government front-bench parliamentarian.

This decision was reached following a meeting held with President David Granger on Wednesday, Minister Harmon explained during his weekly post-Cabinet briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency.

“It was clear after that meeting that Dr. Roopnaraine will continue to serve as a minister in the government, as a member of Parliament and as a valued member of our Cabinet. Dr. Roopnaraine’s  contribution to the country and his ability and capacity to continue to contribute, is one which the president spoke about,” Minister Harmon said.

The Minister of State said that, “He (the president) was  very happy that Dr. Roopnaraine pledged to continue serving in the interest of all of Guyana.”

Minister Harmon explained that Dr. Roopnaraine, the longtime WPA leader, felt that his health was preventing him from contributing at the level expected of him. Minister  Harmon pointed out  that, “The president gave him the assurance that the support which he needs to ensure that he continues to function effectively will be given to him in that regard.”

Dr. Roopnarine sought to resign as a minister just one month after being reassigned to the Ministry of Public Service. He previously served as the Minister of Education.

 

By: Synieka Thorne