President Dr. Irfaan Ali says a list of persons linked to irregularities uncovered in the driver’s licence system has already been prepared and will soon be made public, with those named expected to come forward and explain themselves.
The President made the disclosure while speaking with reporters on Wednesday.
Addressing the issue, Dr. Ali pushed back against the suggestion that he had simply set a deadline for persons who illegally obtained licences to surrender them.
He said the government had instead carried out an exercise that exposed “glaring inconsistency” between persons who wrote the theoretical examination, those who received practical certificates, and those who ultimately obtained licences.
“The reconciliation is ongoing, and what you will see very soon is a list published of persons who will be asked to come in to explain themselves,” the President said. He added that he is aware the list has already been prepared.
The latest statement comes against the backdrop of criticism from Opposition Member of Parliament Ganesh Mahipaul, who recently accused the President of failing to follow through on an earlier promise to publish the names of persons who allegedly obtained licences without meeting the legal requirements.
While not providing a date for publication, Dr. Ali indicated that the matter remains active and tied to a broader process of reconciliation and review.
The President also acknowledged that enforcement remains a challenge, despite the government having already increased fines for a range of traffic offenses, including drinking and driving.
“The enforcement is a problem, but we’re improving enforcement with the cameras,” he said.
Dr. Ali further revealed that he has asked Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C., to examine what additional legal measures may be necessary and to ensure that any amendments needed are brought before Parliament.
According to the President, stronger enforcement and updated laws are critical if Guyana is to build a more disciplined society and improve standards across key areas of public life.
He stopped short of saying how many people are expected to be named, telling reporters only to “wait on the list.”
