GEORGETOWN, Guyana (AP) – The European Union (EU) is withholding $37 million in aid slated for Guyana because the government of the South American country is operating without a Parliament.
EU officials said they will withhold the money meant to help boost the country’s sugar industry and finance infrastructure works until their concerns are addressed.
The EU noted in a statement that one of the functions of Guyana’s National Assembly is to oversee the budget.
President Donald Ramotar temporarily suspended the opposition-controlled legislature in November to avoid a no-confidence vote.
He has called for elections in May but has not yet formally dissolved Parliament. The National Assembly could remain legally suspended for up to six months.
