GECOM rejects reports of GDF involvement as Presiding Officers on Sept 1

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has firmly rejected recent reports suggesting that members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) might be called upon to serve as Presiding Officers in the upcoming General and Regional Elections scheduled for 1 September 2025.
In a statement issued on Friday evening, GECOM described the claim as “entirely false” and stressed that it has no basis in law, policy, or practice.
The Commission clarified that Presiding Officers are civilian functionaries appointed through a public recruitment process. All officers undergo mandatory training in accordance with the Representation of the People Act and established GECOM protocols.
“There is no provision in the electoral framework, either legislatively or operationally, that allows for military personnel, including members of the GDF, to serve as Presiding Officers or carry out polling day responsibilities on behalf of GECOM,” the statement said.
GECOM also addressed concerns over recruitment, noting that while some individuals have declined offers for certain positions, these individuals have instead been assigned to roles where they are comfortable serving. The Commission emphasised that it continues to manage its recruitment programme and remains on track to fill all required positions with trained and vetted civilians.
The Commission warned that claims suggesting military involvement in the electoral process are “inaccurate, misleading, and irresponsible”, particularly at a time when maintaining public confidence and calm is critical.
GECOM urged media houses and public commentators to verify information with the Commission before publishing reports that could cause confusion or alarm. The body reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, peaceful, and lawfully administered election on 1 September.