GHRA, Bar condemn statement by Chancellor Kennard
GUYANA Human Rights Association (GHRA) and Guyana Bar Association (GBA) have both strongly condemned a recent statement attributed to Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Cecil Kennard about women in the legal profession.
In separate reactions, the two bodies dubbed the alleged assertion unacceptable and smacking of discrimination.
GHRA said Mr Kennard made the offensive remark when asked what was his view of the growing number of women in the practice and replied that "the legal profession is for men."
GHRA said he went on to describe the legal profession as difficult but added that, if women work in the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney General, they would do well.
"Such patronising comments, while offensive in themselves, are completely unacceptable coming from one charged with ensuring such prejudice becomes a thing of the past," GHRA said.
It pointed to Article 29 (1) of the Constitution which states that "men and women have equal rights and the same legal status in all spheres of political, economic and social life" and Article 29 (2) which says:"The exercise of women's rights is ensured by according women equal access with men to academic, vocational and professional training, equal opportunities in employment, remuneration and promotion."
GHRA said the Constitutional Reform Commission recommended these rights be elevated to the status of fundamental rights in the new Constitution.
"The Chancellor's comment has repercussions, not only for women lawyers, but for all women, should cases involving women's rights come before him.
"The GHRA believes the Chancellor should completely withdraw the remarks and apologise for any offence they may have caused.
"Whatever course of action he chooses to take, however chilling the effect of the Head of the Judiciary harbouring views so out of step with the Constitution and International Human Rights, norms cannot be removed," GHRA said.
GBA said it is "deeply disturbed" by what the Chancellor said on public television.
"It is unacceptable that such statements were made by the Chancellor."
GBA said it is proud of the significant and invaluable ongoing contributions of female legal practitioners.
"Their distinguished presence in the Judiciary, Magistracy, Government Legal Chambers, State and Private Corporations, Parliament and the Private Bar is testimony to their perseverance and success," their professional body said, rejecting any attestation that appears to be discriminatory and gender divisive.
"Such statements are misconceived," GBA declared.
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