Be vigilant throughout elections period – Prison Director urges officers
Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot has urged prison officers to remain vigilant and professional while on duty during the election period, emphasising that they must be fearless and confident in carrying out their responsibilities.
Elliot made the call on Tuesday and Wednesday, as he introduced body-worn cameras to officers stationed at the Georgetown and Timehri prisons.
Reminding the officers of the importance of confidence in the execution of their daily duties, Elliot also underscored the need for them to remain fully aware of their roles in the line of duty.
Prison officers during their muster
He stressed that professionalism, impartiality, and vigilance are essential in safeguarding democratic processes during this time.
“You are ultimately responsible for safety, security, and supervision of inmates that are under your care, but during this election period you must also uphold electoral integrity,” Elliot stated.
Only a day ago, Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken urged policemen and women to remain neutral and professional in the execution of their duties as the Guyana Police Force gears up for the polls.
The Commissioner warned of consequences for any actions taken outside of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Force policies. He emphasised that professionalism, impartiality, and preparedness must be maintained at all times.
This week, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) confirmed its readiness for the Disciplined Forces voting scheduled for Friday.
Deputy Chief Election Officer, Aneal Giddings, reported that all logistical arrangements are in place, noting, “Yes. We are well poised for the conduct of these elections on Friday. All of the logistical arrangements have been made. At this point, there is nothing, aside from force majeure, that would prevent such conduct.”
According to GECOM, all election materials, including ballot papers, Statements of Poll (SOP) forms, and tally sheets, have already arrived from Canada. The Commission has since completed preparations for the disciplined forces balloting, with 10,481 ballots allocated: 6909 for the Police Force, 3106 for the Defence Force, and 466 for the Prison Service.
Members of the disciplined services who are unable to cast their ballots on August 22 will have another opportunity to do so on September 1 in their registered electoral district.
Director of Prisons Nicklon Elliot has urged prison officers to remain vigilant and professional while on duty during the election period, emphasising that they must be fearless and confident in carrying out their responsibilities.
