Amid ongoing political deadlock in Guyana, Canada’s High Commissioner, Sébastien Sigouin, has sought to clarify the scope of his diplomatic engagement, emphasizing that conversations with political actors do not equate to partisan support.

Sigouin addressed public concerns following a meeting between the Canadian High Commission and representatives of the political movement We Invest in Nationhood (WIN). The group has been active in protests over the prolonged absence of parliamentary sessions. WIN confirmed that its delegation met with Sigouin and Political Counsellor Daniel Bood to discuss issues of mutual interest, including democratic governance and parliamentary procedures.

“The role of a High Commissioner is to engage with a broad spectrum of society, from government and opposition figures to civil society and community organisations,” Sigouin wrote on Facebook. “This engagement is rooted in support for democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law. Dialogue does not imply endorsement of any particular party or movement.”

The meeting comes against a backdrop of mounting criticism over the failure of National Assembly Speaker Manzoor Nadir to convene opposition Members of Parliament for the election of an Opposition Leader. Parliament has been inactive since November 3, prompting demonstrations by WIN and support from other opposition parties.

Sigouin reiterated that Canada respects Guyana’s sovereignty and constitutional processes, underlining that strong institutions are essential for a resilient democracy. “Parliament is the cornerstone of democracy,” he wrote. “It is where accountability is exercised, differing views are expressed peacefully, and citizens’ interests are debated through constitutional means.”

In previous statements, Sigouin has highlighted the critical role of public institutions in translating democratic principles into action. On December 8, he described parliaments, ministries, and local councils as the backbone of democracy, praising public servants who work under challenging conditions with professionalism and integrity.

Sigouin noted that the selection of an Opposition Leader and the scheduling of parliamentary sessions remain matters for Guyana’s constitutional actors to resolve. He expressed confidence that democratic traditions and institutions will address the impasse and enable Parliament to resume work for the benefit of the Guyanese people.

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