GTUC says all political parties should ensure establishment of Public Procurement Commission

[www.inewsguyana.com] – The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) has taken a serious objection to Opposition Leader David Granger’s statement that the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission [PPC] is not a concern that his party – A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) – shares presently.

The union says more so with respect to tying it with the passing of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Amendment Bill.

The GTUC in a statement noted that, “The PPC is a constitutional body and all responsible parties should seek to ensure its immediate enactment and functioning” adding that “constitutional requirements cannot be cheery-picked or dismissed at will. Doing this is in itself a violation of the Constitution.”

According to the GTUC, it also gives tactic support to the government’s contempt for this sacred instrument, which remains the foundation for good governance.

“Failure to uphold this also reinforces the importance of the influences of human will-power or lack of in giving meaning to constitutional provisions. This is a factor of grave concern and an unnecessary hindrance in the development of our society and accountability of government offices.”

The union added that corruption is a human rights issue and the APNU as the lead opposition has a responsibility to society to ensure good governance, accountability of public procurement and holding government responsible for holding the constitution sacred.

The statement further added that where the government is failing, the APNU must give voice and leadership to the nation to protect and defend the Constitution.

In this regard the GTUC called on the APNU to respect the Constitution and revisit its position on having the PPC activated.