ECD commander rallies ranks for discipline, readiness

…as police gear up for 2025 elections

With the country heading into elections in September, law enforcement leadership in Regional Police Division 4’C’ (East Coast Demerara) has shifted into high gear, reinforcing standards of discipline, operational readiness and internal cohesion. At the centre of this drive is Commander of the Division, Assistant Commissioner Khali Pareshram who recently led a high-level briefing with ranks under his command.

The session, held as part of ongoing capacity-building initiatives, took on renewed urgency as Commander Pareshram tackled a wide array of topics, ranging from field conduct and asset protection to inter-rank trust and election preparedness.
Stressing the importance of resource management, Pareshram reminded ranks of their duty to preserve and properly use the Force’s critical tools, including patrol vehicles and surveillance gear.
He said the tools are vital in building transparency, accountability and public trust, especially during interactions with civilians.
The commander warned against the dangers of careless speech. “Your words reflect the professionalism of the entire Force,” he told ranks, cautioning them to avoid loose or inappropriate conversations both among themselves and with the public. He also reaffirmed the expectation of strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures, especially in the face of potential threats or incidents. “Action must be taken. No report should go unattended,” he stressed.
As ranks prepare for the increased demands that elections typically bring, the Commander placed special focus on operational coordination and systems adherence. He pointed to the role of the Operations Room and the need for ranks to respect the chain of command as essential elements of maintaining structure during periods of national tension.
Trust and unity within the ranks were also key themes of his address. Pareshram made it clear that the Guyana Police Force is pushing toward transformation, not only in its external image but in its internal culture. He said that integrity and unity remain pillars of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). The Force, he further said, must be seen as modern and regionally competitive, both in behaviour and in capability.
As digital platforms increasingly blur the line between personal and public personas, Pareshram urged caution regarding online behaviour. He told officers to be mindful of how they carry themselves, both in uniform and out, especially in relation to social media.
Other senior officers supported his call for higher standards across the board. Deputy Commander, Superintendent Dufu, addressed the importance of conduct off-duty as well as on, reminding officers that their actions, whether on or off duty, represent the Force. Meanwhile, Superintendent Prince took a more targeted approach, focusing her message on the welfare of female officers. She urged all women ranks to form structured support systems and emphasised the need for mental and physical readiness as the elections approach. “Preparedness is key,” she stated.
The session also previewed upcoming training and development initiatives that will form part of the division’s election readiness programme. These include body camera refresher sessions, taser training and election-specific operational briefings, all designed to reinforce professional standards and ensure that ranks are fully equipped to navigate the challenges ahead.
In May, President Dr Irfaan Ali announced that Guyana’s next General and Regional Elections will be held on Monday, September 1, 2025.