“Guidelines for ‘interim status’ based on int’l accepted conventions” – DG Harmon

─ Cabinet accepts ‘interim’ status

─ govt will continue to attend to matters considered urgent and public interest

DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, August 7, 2019

“Cabinet iterated that the guidelines for its ‘interim status’ are based on the internationally accepted conventions relating to the role and functions of interim governments.”

This is according to Director-General (DG) of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon. He was at the time addressing the members of the media during a post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday.

DG Harmon stated that in its ‘interim mode’, the Coalition Government will exercise restraint and not engage in initiatives that are likely to be considered controversial. This, he explained, would include not embarking on new policy initiatives, programmes or policies including the signing of new international agreements or embarking on new major infrastructural projects.

He, however, noted that the government would continue to attend to matters considered urgent and in the interest of the public. Matters of security, the maintenance and rehabilitation of public infrastructure, the support of systems for public health delivery, housing and education are among the government’s routine functions.

“We will continue to implement projects and programmes approved by the Parliament, in which contracts have been signed and had commenced before the interim period, and we will ensure any new projects or programmes carried out will not be difficult to reverse or change if necessary,” DG Harmon stated.

The Director-General said the Cabinet agreed that the government retains its full array of powers. It was noted that the ministers would continue to exercise jurisdiction and responsibility for all ministries, agencies and departments that fall under their portfolios.

“It was clearly understood that the interim government is the government, and is empowered to ensure the welfare of all citizens; maintain law and order, manage and deliver public service, command the police an army, ensure peace and security and attend to routine functions of government.”

It was highlighted that the government would consult with the opposition where necessary as it is required by law.

It was also emphasised that all public service rules remain enforced and applicable. More importantly, the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and other arms of law enforcement are expected to continue to perform their duties and responsibilities lawfully.