During a session of the National Assembly on Monday, Speaker Manzoor Nadir condemned remarks made by newly elected Leader of the Opposition, Azruddin Mohamed, warning that such comments could lead to a review by the Privileges Committee if they are found to violate parliamentary rules.
At the start of the session, Nadir congratulated all Members elected to the 13th Parliament, including Government Ministers and Mohamed, while underscoring the immense responsibility associated with their roles. He emphasized the importance of being well-versed in three critical documents: the Constitution, the Standing Orders of the National Assembly, and the Handbook for Members of Parliament, which govern conduct, debate, and accountability within the House.
Referencing Article 50 of the Constitution, Nadir reiterated that Guyana’s key democratic institutions—Parliament, the President, and the Cabinet—must be respected as a matter of principle. He described remarks made by Mohamed as “vile comments” and emphasized that any criticism of the Speaker should be addressed through appropriate parliamentary channels.
“Anyone wishing to criticise the Speaker is free to do so by way of a substantive motion brought before this House,” Nadir stated, adding that while he has developed a “thick skin” over his 45 years in public service, he is prepared to take action if such criticism oversteps acceptable boundaries.
The Speaker indicated that Mohamed’s comments will be reviewed, potentially forming the basis for a referral to the Privileges Committee, which investigates breaches of parliamentary privilege and other misconduct.
Nadir also provided details on the process by which the Leader of the Opposition was elected earlier that day, noting that Amanza Walton-Desir, representing the Forward Guyana Movement, voted in support of Mohamed alongside the 16 Members from We Invest in Nationhood (WIN). Notably, 12 Members from the APNU+AFC coalition departed the meeting after the nomination was made.
Following the election, Nadir confirmed that he has communicated the outcome to President Dr. Irfaan Ali in writing, completing the necessary constitutional and procedural steps for recognizing the Leader of the Opposition.
He concluded his address by stressing that while vigorous debate is integral to parliamentary democracy, it must be rooted in respect for rules, Speaker authority, and state institutions.
