Business and Economic Commentary: GECOM has lost its way – time for reversal

(Kaieteur News) – Last week, I examined GECOM’s history and its reported expenditure of G$46.53 billion over fifteen years. This concluding article examines whether its chairperson and commissioners have justified the authority, benefits and public confidence entrusted to them through their performance.

GECOM comprises Chairperson Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh and six commissioners: three appointed by the President in his own judgment, and three on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition after consultation. Conceived for Guyana’s 1992 return to democratic elections, this political compromise has never guaranteed independent, professionally accountable electoral governance. As the Table below shows, the two longest-serving commissioners have collectively held office for more than 37 years, while another approaches twelve.

*Alexander’s March 2007 date reflects his reported nomination rather than a verified swearing-in.