However, the various concepts seem to be nebulous, in that there is no clear definition and different persons have different opinions as to what it should entail.

In my opinion, the concept of shared governance must have some basic inherent principles i.e.

(1) each party will live up to its own responsibilities,

(2) take into account the effect of its actions on others

(3) decision making should be seen to respect local responsibilities

(4) adherence to constitutional procedures, and

(5) active dialogue amongst the political parties.

While there are no clear allowances for power sharing and shared governance, Guyana's Constitution allows for participatory democracy and a democratic process.

Article 13 of the Constitution reads: "The principal objective of the political system of the State is to establish an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing opportunities for the participation of the State with particular emphasis on those areas of decision making that directly affect their well being."

However, the current scenario facing our Parliament today is one that is virtually unheard of anywhere in the world.

The notable absence of the main opposition party from Parliament is significant. Ironically this is the same party that is spearheading the call for shared governance.

But how can that call even be taken seriously, if they do not take the responsibilities of being a parliamentary opposition seriously?

Each time the ruling party and the opposition parties participate in a debate or a move in Parliament to effect changes in the laws governing Guyana, there is an activation of participatory democracy.

Constitution amendments from the Constitutional Reform process caused a number of important alterations to our Constitution to enhance participatory democracy.

Some of these amendments provide for the establishment of a number of commissions, parliamentary standing committees and parliamentary sectoral committees.

The composition of the commissions, including the Ethnic Relations Commission and Human Rights Commission, requires two-thirds support in the National Assembly and they are independent bodies with sanctioning powers which clearly makes them bi-partisan and inclusive.

However, the absence of the main opposition party from Parliament signals an undervaluing of these constitutional allowances, which ensure that their voices impact the governing process of Guyana.

An opposition party in Parliament is there because the citizens of the country elected and placed them there. Our main opposition party has violated the trust placed in them by the citizens of Guyana by not taking seriously the role of an opposition as defined in the legislation.

The opposition party enhances the process of governing through its performance and participation in Parliament, thus ensuring that every citizen is actively a part in the governing process of this country.

If we are to move forward as a country and if the PNC Reform is serious in its call for shared governance, a demonstration of goodwill has to be shown.

Ultimately, they must return to Parliament to fulfill the responsibilities they hold there.