Guyana Still Wants C.J. Benjamin, but Bar Says Be Careful What You Wish For

Kenneth Benjamin

Pressure continues to mount on Guyanese President David Granger to indicate the way forward in the appointment of the top two judicial posts. He has offered the post of Chancellor of the Judiciary to Belize’s Chief Justice Kenneth Benjamin despite local opposition led by predecessor Bharrat Jagdeo. Today, as the President indicated he would not consider naming persons to the posts in an acting capacity, the Guyana Bar Association warned against any unconstitutional appointments and the consequences. Its statement urged the government and the opposition to break the impasse and reach agreement. President Granger indicated his “disappointment” with Jagdeo, but reiterated that he would seek legal advice; however, the Bar Association wrote that the Guyanese constitution makes sure there is no way around the Leader of the Opposition’s consent for appointment. It leaves the fate of Chief Justice Benjamin, who has served here since 2011, in limbo.