Caricom observers praise Guyana’s peaceful, orderly elections

In presenting the preliminary findings of the Caricom Elections Observer Mission (CEOM) to Guyana’s September 1 General and Regional Elections, Chief of Mission Josephine Tamai on Tuesday declared that Guyana’s elections were held peacefully, orderly and without significant incident, while she also urged Guyanese to remain calm and patient as the country continues to await the declaration of the official results of the elections. Speaking at a press conference held at the Caricom Secretariat, Tamai commended the smooth conduct of the elections, highlighting the professionalism of polling day staff and the disciplined behaviour of voters and political stakeholders.

“The CEOM is of the view that on Election Day voters were able to exercise their franchise in a peaceful and orderly manner without significant incident,” Tamai said.
“The team observed no signs of intimidation, harassment or campaigning intimidation that influenced or obstructed the democratic process. Polling day staff performed their duty in a professional manner and are to be commended. Similarly, the police-maintained law and order at the stations with extreme professionalism in their interactions with electors and various political stakeholders.”
Tamai noted that on election day, the CEOM observed that voter turnout was initially slow, however polling staff remained focused and ensured that all eligible voters were accommodated. Nonetheless, with the country still awaiting the official declaration of the results from the elections, Tamai called for continued peace and patience. “The relevant authorities must be allowed the space to carry out their duties, thoroughly and transparently. Now more than ever Guyanese must stand together and put the country first. Remember that the strength of the nation lies in its unity, resilience and commitment to the democratic process. The integrity of your elections is essential to the future of Guyana,” she said.
The CEOM was in Guyana from August 26 to September 3 and comprised a 10-member delegation of electoral officials from eight Caricom Member States. On election day the delegation visited some 324 polling stations across Regions Three, Four, Five, Six, and 10 and observed all aspects of the electoral process—from the opening of polls, casting of ballots and closure, to the counting and tabulation of votes. Tamai reported that polling staff followed established GECOM guidelines diligently, including in the post-vote counting procedures, which were conducted transparently and in the presence of party agents and observers.
“The close of poll procedures were conducted in accordance with the guidelines outlined by GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission). Polling staff were observed to be adequately trained and consistently and impartially guided voters throughout the process. The CEOM is satisfied that the polling staff follow the counting of ballot procedures and guidelines outlined by GECOM,” Tamai said. The CEOM affirmed that counting procedures adhered to GECOM guidelines with results verified and signed off by party agents before being posted at polling stations in accordance with the law. Tamai praised GECOM, the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) and all polling staff, noting that despite earlier concerns of potential staff shortages.
“We wish to congratulate the Guyana Elections Commission, the Chief Elections Officer and all polling staff. Despite concerns raised prior to Election Day regarding a potential shortage of staff, all polling stations visited had a full complement of professional and courteous workers who efficiently managed the process, even though some including presiding officers were working for the first time. Congratulations are also in order for the political parties, their agents, their supporters, and all voters for the peaceful and orderly way they conducted themselves on election day,” she said.
As pertains to pre-elections activities, Tamai noted that while the campaign activities were mostly focused on policy and national development issues, the CEOM acknowledged the presence of “personal attacks and accusations,” which Tamai said reflected the high stakes of the election and Guyana’s evolving political landscape. Crucially, no reports of major election-related violence were received.
According to Tamai leading up to the elections, the CEOM engaged with Government representatives, civil society organisations, all six political parties, the media and both local and international observer missions to assess the pre-election environment.
In addition to its electoral observations, the CEOM outlined several stakeholder concerns and recommendations including concerns that were raised about the integrity of the voters list, the need for biometric verification, the need for change in the composition of the Commissioners that make up GECOM, and the introduction of legislation that address campaign financing.
The CEOM’s final report, which is expected to include comprehensive findings and recommendations, is expected to be submitted to the Caricom Secretary-General in the coming weeks. Tamai affirmed the CEOM’s commitment to supporting Guyana’s democratic development and extended its gratitude to all individuals and organisations who supported its mission.