Rowley wants PM Kamla prosecuted for using veto to block FIU appointment

Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley on Monday called for the prosecution of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for her decision to veto the appointment of Michelle Ann Austin as director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU).

Austin was recommended for the post by the Public Service Commission (PSC), which is an independent body.

Last week Persad-Bissessar explained her decision to use her veto, noting that she acted on the advice of the Minister of Finance and also pointed out that there is a precedent for such action.

Read the story: PM Kamla explains use of veto in rejecting nominee for post of FIU chief

Rowley is not satisfied with the PM's explanation and told reporters Persad-Bissessar must answer for her action.

“Today I call on the Public Services Commission to take this matter to another arm of the State, the Judiciary, for and interpretation of the use of the veto,” Rowley said.

Rowley insisted that Persad-Bissessar had no basis for her action to veto the appointment, adding that she displayed “blatant favouritism” towards the acting director, Susan Francios.

“This position requires an originating summons from the court to find out whether in fact that behaviour of the Prime Minister meets with the letter and the spirit and law of Section 121 of the Constitution,” the opposition leader said.

Rowley also suggested that the Opposition would have to seriously consider whether it should support the Government in anything in the future.

The appointment of Francois was controversial from the start when Attorney General Anand Ramlogan announced her appointment in February. It was determined later that her appointment was not lawful but continued to act in the position until the PSC selected a candidate for the post. Austin was that candidate but the Prime Minister used her veto to block it.