Finance Minister shuts down PPP’s report that new Commissioner General was appointed

by Delicia Fletcher

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in a statement today (April 2) expressed dismay at the reported appointment of a new Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

The closing date for applications on this position and that of the Deputy Commissioner General at the GRA close on May 3, 2016.

However, the main Opposition PPP says the party’s dismay is fueled by “the reported appointment of the New Commissioner General of Guyana Revenue Authority while there continues to be advertisement in the media for the vacant position”.

The party is contending that the “reported appointment” is a slap in the face of the public; raising renewed concerns about the coalition government’s transparency and accountability.

However, in an invited comment Finance Minister, Winston Jordan tells a different story.

Minister Jordan has shut down these concerns raised by the opposition, confirming with the News Room that no appointment has been made,as the closing date for applications is still pending.

He also pointed out, that in fact, apart from local advertisements, the positions are being publicized internationally in order to attract the best possible candidates for the job.

The position of Commissioner General became available in January, following the unanimous decision of the Governing Board of the GRA to terminate the relationship between Commissioner General Mr. Khurshid Sattaur and the Revenue Authority.

This decision took effect on March 1, 2016.