Executive Member of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Ganesh Mahipaul said on Saturday to Guyana Standard that the placement of Working People’s Alliance (WPA) Executive Member, Dr David Hinds, on the party’s parliamentary list is the fulfilment of a commitment to restore the WPA’s rightful representation in the National Assembly.
Mahipaul recalled that the WPA had been a “faithful partner” in the coalition since 2011, with Dr Rupert Roopnaraine serving as its representative. However, after Dr Roopnaraine fell ill, the WPA was left without a proper process of replacement.
“The WPA was basically left unrepresented at the level of the National Assembly. Tabitha [Sarabo-Halley] had resigned her membership but didn’t resign her seat. She formed her own party and occupied the seat that belonged to the WPA,” said Mahipaul.
He said what APNU leader Aubrey Norton did was re-engage WPA and assured them of proper representation.
“Like any person who engages others with honesty and decency, Norton didn’t disappoint. Hinds’ placement is also not a Norton decision, but an APNU decision that was honoured,” Mahipaul explained.
He also stressed that no one was deliberately left out of the 12-member list, but pointed to the limited number of seats won by the party.
“Like government, the opposition has five years at most… there should be no expectation that that position is for a lifetime—it is at the discretion of the party,” said Mahipaul.
The foregoing comments were made in response to concerns on social media that persons such as former Opposition Chief Whip, Christopher Jones were bypassed. Mahipaul noted that Jones served two terms in the House. While this is not to be seen as a justification, he reminded that the party has 12 seats and several factors had to be considered.
“We had many factors to balance to show that we are the epitome of a multi-racial, multi-religious and multi-cultural party. I believe we achieved this objective, notwithstanding our limited number of 12,” he said.
Mahipaul further praised the APNU Leader for his maturity and foresight in stepping aside from the parliamentary frontlines. “It was monumental and admirable that Norton took the position of not returning to the National Assembly and has also signalled his non-intention of seeking the presidency again.”
He said Norton is now committed to nurturing the next cadre of leaders, adding, “We welcome his presence as the most experienced one to provide that leadership in our quest to rebrand, rebuild, and restructure for electoral victory five years from now.”
