In a significant development within Guyana’s judiciary, Acting Chancellor Yonette Cummings has officially resumed her duties following a period of vacation leave. This move has facilitated the return of Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire to her role as Acting Chief Justice. During Chancellor Cummings’ absence, Justice George-Wiltshire had temporarily assumed the responsibilities of the Chancellor of the Judiciary, while Justice Navindra Singh was elevated to the position of Acting Chief Justice. However, as of Thursday, October 23, 2025, Chief Justice George-Wiltshire has not yet reoccupied the Chief Justice’s Chambers, located at the north-western end of the High Court complex. Sources indicate that she has chosen to utilize the High Court’s conference room on the south-eastern end instead. The reasons behind this decision remain unclear, and Attorney General Anil Nandlall has not responded to inquiries regarding the matter. This transition marks a pivotal moment in the judiciary’s leadership, raising questions about the operational dynamics within the High Court.
分类： politics
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Lovell Calls PM’s Reforms hasty and diversionary
Harold Lovell, the United Progressive Party (UPP) caretaker for All Saints West, has launched a scathing critique against Prime Minister Gaston Browne, accusing him of orchestrating a cover-up in the ongoing ‘chain gang’ vehicle scandal. Lovell’s statement, issued on Thursday, contends that Browne’s recent announcements—ranging from new vehicle policies to public auctions, a $10 million repayment agreement, and the establishment of a ‘People’s Restitution Fund’—are not genuine reforms but rather ‘acts of desperation.’
Lovell argued that these measures fail to address the core issues or hold accountable those implicated in the scandal. ‘Every new announcement underscores the severity of the problem, yet none tackle the individuals at the heart of it,’ he stated. He emphasized that the citizens of Antigua and Barbuda deserve transparency and accountability, not what he described as ‘theatrics.’
‘The Prime Minister’s decision to negotiate repayments before a comprehensive investigation is not justice; it’s a smokescreen,’ Lovell added. The UPP is demanding a full forensic investigation, spearheaded by independent bodies such as the Integrity Commission, the Auditor General’s Office, and civil society observers. Lovell believes that only such an inquiry can restore public trust in the government.
‘With every policy announcement, Gaston Browne shuts another door to the truth,’ Lovell remarked. ‘He’s using window dressing to obscure the facts, but the people of Antigua and Barbuda will not remain in the dark.’
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Abos eist ontslag procureur-generaal García Paragsingh
The General Interest Organization of Suriname (Abos) has formally submitted a petition to the National Assembly, demanding the immediate dismissal of Prosecutor General Garcia Paragsingh. The petition, personally received by Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin, accuses Paragsingh of ‘attributable negligence and dereliction of duty’ in the constitutional execution of her office. Martin Atencio, representing Abos, emphasized the need for a criminal investigation into the matter, citing Article 142, Section 2 of the Constitution as the legal basis for her removal. This marks the second time in two months that Abos has filed such a petition, this time with a renewed urgency. The organization has highlighted over fourteen alleged ‘misdeeds’ by Paragsingh, including political persecution, mishandling of high-profile cases, and the controversial liquidation of two unarmed, handcuffed men in Pikin Saron. Abos is also calling for a mandatory response from the Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding a previously submitted legal notice, the establishment of a People’s Tribunal, and a substantive dialogue on land rights and domain issues. Political leaders have been urged to ‘no longer look away’ and to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities. Chairman Adhin acknowledged the societal uproar caused by these issues and assured that they are being addressed within both governmental and parliamentary frameworks. The petition has also been forwarded to the President’s Cabinet.
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Routine spot checks of containers begin at customs
In a decisive move to tackle customs fraud and safeguard national revenue, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced the initiation of routine spot checks on imported containers. This measure is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to enhance transparency and ensure equitable revenue collection from importers. Browne emphasized that the initiative aligns with his recent commitment to bolster customs oversight and establish a People’s Restitution Fund. This fund will serve as a repository for penalties, interest, and other charges levied against customs violators, with the proceeds earmarked to finance vital social programs. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of these efforts in curbing under-invoicing and other fraudulent practices, which have long undermined the country’s fiscal integrity. By implementing these rigorous inspection protocols, the government aims to foster a fairer and more accountable import-export ecosystem, ultimately benefiting the nation’s economic stability and social welfare initiatives.
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PM: Fines from Customs Violations to Fund Social Programs
In a significant move to address customs violations, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans to establish the ‘People’s Restitution Fund.’ This initiative aims to collect penalties, interest, and other charges from importers found guilty of breaching customs regulations. The fund is designed to formalize the management of recovered monies and fines, ensuring they are directed toward public welfare projects. The announcement comes on the heels of Browne’s recent remarks regarding restitution efforts in the ongoing government vehicle probe, where a dealer agreed to repay $10 million. Additionally, the Prime Minister has confirmed that excess or improperly assigned government vehicles will be sold at public auction following a comprehensive fleet audit. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in managing public resources.
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UPP told to make it clear whether they want car dealers to go to jail
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced that his administration is seeking restitution from vehicle dealers involved in the ongoing government fleet controversy. This development follows revelations that millions of dollars were spent on government vehicles outside standard procurement procedures. Browne disclosed that one dealer has already agreed to repay $10 million, while another is currently under audit. The prime minister emphasized that the audit and reassignment process for the vehicles are still underway. Additionally, Browne stated that any unassigned vehicles will be sold at public auction in the near future. The controversy has sparked significant public scrutiny, with the prime minister urging the opposition to clarify its stance on the matter. This situation highlights broader concerns about transparency and accountability in government procurement practices.
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Sri Lankan Opposition Politician Shot Dead
Sri Lanka’s political landscape has been rocked by the assassination of Lasantha Wickramasekara, a 38-year-old opposition politician, who was shot dead inside his office in Weligama on Wednesday. This incident marks the first political killing in a recent surge of violent shootings across the nation. According to the Associated Press, an unidentified gunman entered Wickramasekara’s office, opened fire, and fled the scene. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Wickramasekara succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have suggested that the attack may be connected to gang rivalries, with Sri Lanka’s public security minister alleging that the victim had ties to narcotics and faced multiple court cases. However, opposition leaders have dismissed these claims as politically motivated, accusing the government of failing to protect its political rivals. Lawmaker Ranjith Madduma Bandara condemned the killing, stating, ‘The government must take responsibility for this. This is a political killing.’ Sri Lanka has witnessed a significant increase in violent crime this year, with 100 shootings reported, resulting in 51 deaths and 56 injuries. Police have arrested dozens of suspected gang leaders, some of whom were extradited from countries including the UAE, Indonesia, India, and Nepal.
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Assembly of Southern Lawyers congratulates new CJ
The Assembly of Southern Lawyers (ASL) has extended its congratulations to Ronnie Boodoosingh on his recent appointment as Chief Justice of Trinidad and Tobago. The ASL lauded Boodoosingh’s illustrious legal career, which began in 1992 when he was admitted to practice law. He initially worked as an advocate at JD Sellier & Company before transitioning to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions as a prosecutor. In 2007, he was appointed to the High Court bench, and in 2020, he was elevated to the Court of Appeal. ASL President Saira Lakhan highlighted Boodoosingh’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to advancing access to justice, particularly in the southern region. Boodoosingh, who holds a master’s degree in international dispute resolution from the University of London, has also made significant contributions to legal education as a lecturer at the Hugh Wooding Law School and as the founder of the Human Rights Law Clinic. The ASL expressed optimism about collaborating with Boodoosingh to strengthen the administration of justice, reduce court backlogs, and enhance public confidence in the judiciary. The assembly also emphasized the importance of reopening and fully operationalizing courts in the southern region, including those in San Fernando. Meanwhile, attorney Prakash Ramadhar reflected on the tenure of outgoing Chief Justice Ivor Archie, who served for 17 years, calling for greater transparency and accountability in judicial appointments. Ramadhar also raised concerns about the current system of judicial appointments, advocating for public scrutiny of those in positions of power. Boodoosingh was officially appointed by acting President Wade Mark, marking a new chapter in Trinidad and Tobago’s judiciary.
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Penny: Consultation on CJ was rushed
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has voiced concerns over the lack of adequate consultation in the appointment of the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. Speaking to the media outside the Red House in Port of Spain on October 24, Beckles emphasized that her objections were not about Boodoosingh’s qualifications but rather the rushed timeline of the process. She highlighted that a letter with errors was presented at 6:30 PM while she was in Parliament, corrections were sought by 8:30 AM the next morning, and the appointment was finalized by 2 PM the same day. Beckles described this as insufficient consultation, though she acknowledged Boodoosingh’s competence, noting his background as an ethics teacher at the University of the West Indies (UWI). Boodoosingh was sworn in by acting president Wade Mark on October 22. The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago also raised concerns about the expedited and abbreviated process leading to his appointment.
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LATT pushes back on PM’s remarks: ‘We will continue to speak out’
The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) has firmly responded to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s recent criticisms, asserting its constitutional mandate to address matters related to the rule of law and judicial integrity. In a statement issued on October 24, LATT addressed the Prime Minister’s remarks following its commentary on the appointment of the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. The association emphasized its statutory duty to independently and impartially comment on issues affecting the administration of justice, upholding the highest standards of the legal profession. LATT President Lynette Seebaran-Suite, SC, underscored the importance of respectful public discourse on legal and constitutional matters, particularly among high-ranking officials, to preserve democratic institutions. The association reaffirmed its commitment to serving the public interest and maintaining its dignified role in national life. This response came after Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar launched a scathing critique of LATT, labeling it a “defiled and discredited organisation” and dismissing its concerns about the Chief Justice appointment process. LATT had earlier raised concerns about the “hastened and truncated” procedure, questioning whether proper consultation had occurred as required by the Constitution. Despite logistical challenges caused by the abrupt retirement of former Chief Justice Ivor Archie, LATT maintained that constitutional procedures should not have been bypassed. The controversy deepened as Acting President Wade Mark proceeded with the appointment despite objections from Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, who claimed insufficient consultation time. Senior Counsel Martin Daly also criticized the process, describing it as “botched” and poorly handled, while acknowledging Boodoosingh’s qualifications. Criminal Bar Association President Israel Khan, SC, defended Boodoosingh’s integrity and independence, citing his past refusal to engage in sycophancy during a previous judicial controversy. LATT concluded by vowing to remain undeterred in fulfilling its constitutional role and calling for continued respect for democratic institutions.