The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) said that the release of unverified results in Region Four casts doubt on the elections process.
See full statement below:
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), wishes to state that the holding of free, fair and transparent elections is a vital tenet of democracy and for the promotion of unity, harmony and good relations. The credibility of the elections is therefore paramount.
The Commission, having observed the voting process in some Polling Stations in 5 Administrative Regions, found it to be free, fair, transparent and conducted in an atmosphere of peace.
However, the declaration of results for Region 4, after an incomplete verification process, has now cast doubts over the credibility of the March 02 General and Regional Elections.
Having delivered a credible voting process, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is urged, in the best interest of peace and harmony, to safeguard the integrity of the elections by ensuring that the verification and tabulation process, as reflected in The Representation of the People Act, is followed. Transparency of this process becomes foremost.
The historical lessons and the inevitable consequences over elections must guide during this sensitive period. All stakeholders, therefore, have a responsibility to work assiduously to ensure that the prevailing tension does not escalate.
The Commission also urges political Leaders to work in the best interest of the country by endeavouring to diffuse tension and not to encourage behaviour that is counterproductive to peace and unity. The need for responsible utterances and actions by all is reiterated as peace and unity are in our hands.
The Commission will continue to work to the best of its ability to aid the promotion of harmony and good relations, especially during this period. All are therefore urged to meaningfully do his/her part.
