AG expresses concern over “slow pace” of alleged election fraud cases

It has been two years since criminal charges were instituted against several former Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) staffers, and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall has expressed concern over the “slow pace” at which the cases have been moving.

Among those charged are Former Chief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield, his duty Roxanne Myers and former Returning Officer for District Four, Clairmont Mingo.

During his weekly programme ‘Issues In The News,’ Minister Nandlall explained that the Magistrates have not yet decided whether the cases should be tried summarily or indictable.

“I have had conversations with the DPP, and the report is that magistrates within the system are not proceeding with the matter with the seriousness and the expediency with which they should, having the regard to the importance of the matter and having regard to the length of time that the matters are pending before them.”

Nandlall stated that as the Minister of Legal Affairs, he has made strong representation on how the cases are to be dealt with while noting that these are matters of national importance.

“I have expressed my concern about the pace at which these cases are being dealt with in the Magistrate’s Court or the lack of case, and I have requested of the DPP most respectfully to ensure the appropriate representations are made to ensure greater alacrity is brought to these matters and that they are treated with the type of seriousness that they deserve.”

The Attorney General has also reiterated that he is in no way trying to influence the outcome of the cases but noted that he is duty bound to make representation as the Minister.

Lowenfield is facing three counts of forgery and three counts of misconduct in public office, while Myers and Mingo are facing separate charges for misconduct in public office.

Former Chairperson of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R) Volda Lawrence and Carol Joseph are also facing criminal charges. On August 1, the election fraud cases were adjourned to October 6, 2022.