Copyright stabroeknews
Dear Editor, I, the undersigned concerned citizen and stakeholder, write to you today with an acute sense of civic duty and a deep commitment to the principles of fiscal responsibility and democratic tradition. My singular purpose is to respectfully urge the Government of Guyana to revert to conducting all sittings of the National Assembly within the hallowed chambers of the Parliament Building on Brickdam. I note with growing concern the continued use of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) for parliamentary proceedings. While I acknowledge the need for a functional space, I am compelled to question the justification for this arrangement, particularly in light of the significant associated cost- $GY 500,000 – for a single sitting of the National Assembly (not sure if food and hospitality costs incurred are included). This substantial expenditure, repeated for each sitting, represents a recurring burden on the public purse. At a time when national resources are urgently needed for critical sectors such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social services, the allocation of half a million dollars per session simply for venue rental is difficult to reconcile with the principles of prudent fiscal management. These funds, when accumulated over a parliamentary year, could make a tangible difference in the lives of countless Guyanese citizens. Beyond the compelling fiscal argument, there exists a powerful symbolic and practical imperative for the National Assembly to sit within its own dedicated building. The Sanctity of Democratic Tradition: The Parliament Building is not merely a structure; it is the heart of Guyana’s democracy. It is a designated National Heritage Site, steeped in history and symbolism. Its very architecture speaks to the gravity, permanence, and independence of the legislative branch of government. Conducting parliamentary affairs within its walls reinforces the dignity of the institution and connects the work of today’s representatives to the legacy of those who served before them. Separation of Powers and Institutional Identity: Housing the legislature in a dedicated building is a fundamental tenet of the separation of powers. It physically and symbolically asserts the independence of Parliament from the executive. The use of a conference centre, which is itself a state-owned entity, blurs these essential lines and risks diminishing the perceived autonomy of the National Assembly. Operational Efficiency and Practicality: The Parliament Building was specifically designed for its purpose, with features tailored to the legislative process. Its permanent setup, including the iconic horseshoe seating arrangement, dedicated offices, and libraries, is conducive to the efficient functioning of our democracy. Additionally, throngs of folks at the Stabroek Market Square were afforded the opportunity to gaze at erected Jumbotron at ongoing parliamentary activity. Editor, whilst I understand that renovations/ Covid may have been the initial catalysts for the move, I urge the government to provide a clear timeline for the completion of these works and a firm commitment to return. Since the ACCC was the default option, thence, the current practice at the ACCC, while perhaps a “ long term” temporary solution, has inadvertently created a perception of opulent extravagance and a disconnect from the economic realities faced by many citizens. Reverting to the Parliament Building would send a strong, unifying message to the nation: that our leaders are committed to honouring our democratic heritage and are conscientious stewards of public funds. I, therefore, implore the governent to take immediate and decisive action to end the rental of the Arthur Chung Conference Centre for parliamentary sittings and to reinstate the Parliament Building as the permanent and sole home of the National Assembly of Guyana. This is more than a matter of cost-saving; it is a reaffirmation of our national values and a powerful investment in the symbolic integrity of Guyana’s democracy. Editor, I trust that the Guyana Government will revert to Parliament Building, post haste. Jonathan Subrian Esq.
