New Coalition agreement not subject to deadlines – Pres. Granger

DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, November 20, 2019

As high-level discussions continue, between the ‘A Partnership for National Unity’ (APNU) and the ‘Alliance for Change’ (AFC), to forge a new Cummingsburg Accord, His Excellency, President David Granger explained that another “high level” meeting is set for Thursday, November 21, 2019.

Responding to questions at the sidelines of an accreditation today at the Ministry of the Presidency, the Head of State said the negotiations are determined by agreements, not by deadlines.

“The question of a deadline will not necessarily bring about the best outcome.”

President Granger and Leader of the five-party A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), said that the negotiations with the AFC are based on, agreed-to, principles.

“I am confident that if we were to sit without noise, soberly and quietly, we would arrive at an outcome which is best for Guyana. We should not allow the preoccupation of personalities to derail the importance of seeking an agreement based on principles. We have agreed on core principles, and APNU have determined that those principles are binding. We will not enter into any accord which violates those principles. The most important principle is that any agreement should be in accordance with the constitution of Guyana.”

The president added that upon his return to office, he will ensure that citizens, “get a National Assembly, on the government’s side, which is honest and which is efficient. That is the aim of negotiations… We are seeking the best outcome for the people of Guyana.” 

The two main Coalition partners are seeking consensus on ministerial positions as they prepare for upcoming general and regional elections on March 2, 2020.