The two news editors who were fired from the state-owned National Communications Network are fighting back this morning and have accused NCN of firing them for their perceived political affiliation.

In a statement, the former NCN staffers Edward Layne and Adele Rampersaud said “we wish to categorically reject these claims which bear no truth and are only designed to besmirch our character and integrity.”

The two said that when they were contacted by the internal security department, they cooperated with the investigators and provided the necessary details as the company launched a probe into an alleged fraud involving $68,000. 

NCN launched a probe during the elections campaign after it reportedly found bogus receipts being presented for a hotel in Bartica that the staffers claimed they stayed at when checks at the hotel revealed that only two rooms were booked and used at the hotel while the receipt was for seven rooms. 

Edward Layne contends that the investigation came up inconclusive but “the company took a decision to terminate our services, despite the fact that both Ms Rampersaud and myself requested that there be a professional investigation into the alleged wrongdoing by the Guyana Police Force”.

Layne said although their employment contracts were signed by the Chief Executive Officer, they were not allowed to have an audience with the CEO before their dismissals.  

“It is noteworthy that only about two weeks ago there were calls in the media by known elements of the new government for my resignation and now a claim of financial improprieties by Ms. Rampersaud and myself, both of whom are perceived to be supporters of the PPP/C.”

Although the two deny any political affiliation, during the campaign, Layne was known to attend regular meetings at the PPP headquarters for editorial and other advice even after the preliminary results indicated that there was going to be a change of government. 

“Ms Rampersaud and I remain open and supportive of a criminal investigation into the allegation being levelled against us and call on the management of NCN and the new government to let their words match their deed. We urge that justice be served and that the new government live up to its promise of fairness, integrity and good governance”, Layne said. 

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