Acceptance is the highest form of patriotism, love for people, country

Dear Editor,
In democracies, elections serve as both closure and renewal. They close the chapter of campaign season – months of debates, promises, and mobilisation – and open the door to a new mandate. That mandate, expressed through the ballot box, must be respected by all who participate in the democratic process.
Our 2025 elections sent a clear and resounding message. President Irfaan Ali and his party won decisively, capturing eight of the ten regions, including territories once deemed untouchable by the opposition. This was not a fluke. It was the product of promises kept, development delivered, and a vision of unity that resonated across the country.
For the opposition, disbelief has been swift. To lose not only nationally but also in historic strongholds such as Regions Four and Ten was unexpected and unprecedented. The calls for recounts, while understandable within procedure, cannot mask reality: the outcome, quite frankly, is settled. The people of Guyana have spoken.
Change, which was captured best by Greek philosopher Heraclitus, who famously posited, “Change is the only constant.” This truth applies not only to life but also to politics. Guyana’s 2025 elections drastically underscore this reality.
Political history is full of shifting allegiances and evolving landscapes. Today’s governing party may one day sit in opposition, just as today’s defeated parties may rise again. But for that cycle to remain intact, every player must respect the sovereignty of the electorate.
By all accounts, Guyana’s 2025 elections were free, fair, transparent, and peaceful. Our people voted without fear. Observers, international and local, confirmed the credibility of the process. To challenge such an outcome without evidence is not only reckless but dangerous; it undermines faith in democracy itself.
Acceptance, therefore, is not a choice. It is an obligation. Political authority flows from the ballot box, and to deny it is to deny the very people one aspires to serve.
Another truth that should be accepted: defeat, though bitter, is not the end. Around the world, political parties have used moments of loss as opportunities for renewal. They have restructured, reconnected with the people, and returned to power stronger than before.
The opposition’s setbacks in Regions Four and Ten should be treated as catalysts for reform, not excuses for denial. By regrouping and respecting the results, opposition parties can prepare themselves to be more effective in the future, both as a loyal opposition and as potential leaders down the road.
President Ali’s victory is more than partisan. It is national. The electorate endorsed his vision of growth, equity, and inclusivity. To obstruct this mandate with denial is to obstruct the progress of Guyana itself.
Acceptance, on the other hand, opens the path to reconciliation, stability, and peace, conditions that attract investment, strengthen democracy, and create opportunities for all. The opposition, Government, and people alike share responsibility for ensuring this progress is not derailed.
The message of the 2025 elections is simple but profound: sovereignty belongs to the people. Their will has been expressed. It must be respected.
Now is the time for unity. The Government must govern. The opposition must regroup. The people must be allowed to move forward in peace. In doing so, all parties demonstrate loyalty not merely to their bases but to Guyana as a nation.
Democracy demands nothing less.
Congratulations, President Irfaan Ali.
Let us not hinder progress. Instead, let us work together for a brighter, stronger, and more united Guyana.

Yours sincerely,
Jermaine Figueira