APNU+AFC Coalition is not falling apart – says Harmon
General Secretary of A Partnership For National Unity (APNU), Joseph Harmon has asserted that the APNU+AFC (Alliance For Change) coalition is not falling apart but rather, it is stronger as ever.
Harmon made the announcement even as the coalition review the terms set out in the Cummingsburg Accord. Over the past week, concerns have been raised about the coalition’s plans to amend the agreement given the fact that certain aspects clashed with Guyana’s constitution.
Political commentator, Ralph Ramkarran had chided both Parties for their non-compliance and insisted that the Parties are not free to amend the accord since it is one that was made by the electorate.
The Cummingsburg Accord states that the Prime Minister would chair the weekly cabinet meetings but this has not been adhered to since the coalition took office.
However, Harmon on Wednesday, July 01 stated that with “the Chairing of Cabinet, there is no issue, because Cabinet is chaired by the President, and upon direction from him, parts are Chaired by the Prime Minister.”
He pointed out that at the last session of Cabinet, half of it was chaired by the President and the other half was presided over by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo.
“The Coalition is not falling apart, but is working quite cohesively,” Harmon asserted; adding that a coalition building forum is to be held soon where both Parties will work out whatever quirks are currently being felt.
Meanwhile, political activist Clinton Urling has lauded the coalition for its move to amend the Cummingsburg Accord, noting that it is progressive thinking on the part of the APNU+AFC.
“The Coalition is treading on sturdy ground by proposing to amend the Accord. I say this resolutely if the modifications lead to stable governance that is characterized by inclusiveness and cooperation (something that has been conspicuously absent from our political culture as of recent) and more so if that lead to good governance,” said Urling.
He contended that most voters are not that concerned about the exactness of the Accord as they are about the consequence of any alteration.
“If it leads to the improvement in their lives, security and economic fortunes then they would most certainly be willing to make that trade off.We must not articulate rigidity for the sake of, especially if it leads to a worsening of the governance situation, but rather we need to examine the current context and adapt when necessary,” he stated.