ERC, Carter Center discuss 2025 elections report, strengthening of social cohesion

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Wednesday, June 17, held discussions with a delegation from The Carter Center on the findings of its final report on Guyana’s 2025 General and Regional Elections.
The Carter Center delegation comprised Country Director of the International Election Observation Mission, Jason Calder, and Associate Director of the Democracy Programme, Brett Lacy.
They met with an ERC delegation led by Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack, alongside Deputy Chairman Charles Ogle and Commissioners Ras Khafra, Chandrowtie Sarran, Neaz Subhan and Norris Witter, as well as Acting Chief Executive Officer Oma Sukhu.

A release from the ERC on Wednesday stated that Chairman Hack thanked The Carter Center for its long-standing involvement in Guyana’s democratic processes since 1992 and highlighted the importance of continued engagement with national institutions.
He also briefed the delegation on the ERC’s role during the 2025 elections, noting its community outreach before, during and after the polls. He pointed to the Commission’s deployment of a large team of local election-day observers and outlined its broader programmes, including Harmony Clubs in schools and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) training across public and private sector organisations.
The Carter Center representatives said they were engaging national stakeholders to discuss the findings and recommendations of their Final Report, with a view to supporting their implementation. The delegation also commended the peaceful conduct of the 2025 elections and acknowledged the ERC’s support for its observation work. A copy of the centre’s election observation handbook was shared with the commission.
Both sides noted their shared focus on promoting inclusive and peaceful democratic processes. While acknowledging challenges raised during the discussions, the ERC and the Carter Center reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and advancing national unity and expressed willingness to continue cooperation in the future.