Duplicate fingerprint issues fixed in cross-match exercise – GECOM Commissioner

Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Commissioner Sase Gunraj has reaffirmed the integrity and effectiveness of Guyana’s fingerprint cross-matching system, one of the key safeguards ensuring electoral credibility.
Speaking to Guyana Times following a GECOM meeting on Tuesday, Commissioner Gunraj confirmed that the Commission has successfully resolved nearly all flagged fingerprint “hits” from the most recent cross-matching report. The report is part of a routine verification process used to detect and prevent multiple registrations by the same individual – either accidentally or intentionally.
“Every time someone applies to GECOM to be registered, their fingerprints are taken and cross-matched against the entire database,” Gunraj explained. “The system flags potential duplicates, which we then investigate to determine if they were the result of errors or deliberate attempts at fraud.”
According to Gunraj, about a dozen potential duplicates were flagged in the latest report, but “most, if not all, were resolved”. Some applicants were advised to make changes, while others had applications rejected or cancelled in line with established procedures. In more serious cases, GECOM refers the matter to the Police for investigation if there is evidence of deliberate manipulation.
In this regard, Gunraj emphasised that the consistent detection and resolution of these attempts highlight the robustness of the system. “The fact that every attempt at duplicate registration is caught tells me that the system is working – and working properly. I am comfortable with its operation,” he said.
The Commissioner’s remarks come amid repeated calls from the Opposition for the introduction of additional biometric systems – such as facial recognition or iris scanning – into the electoral process. However, Gunraj reiterated that any such change would require legislative amendments.
“We already have a strong safeguard in place. The fingerprint cross-matching system continues to perform with accuracy and efficiency. Any move to change that must be approached with caution, and with appropriate legal frameworks,” he said.
The 2025 General and Regional Elections are set for September 1.
Nomination Day has already been announced for July 14 which will allow for the submission of Lists of Candidates for the upcoming General and Regional Elections. On the designated day, the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) will be available to receive the Lists between the hours of 10:00h (10am) and 14:00h (2pm) at the Umana Yana, High Street, Kingston, Georgetown.