Non-compliance with ruling would violate Commonwealth political values – SG

…UN Secretary-General expresses concern about tensions in Guyana

Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland expressed her concern over the conduct of the Returning Officer for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Clairmont Mingo, in relation to his conduct in the tabulation of the Statements of Poll (SoPs) for the district.

“I have noted the concerns contained in previous statements issued by the Commonwealth Observer Group in Guyana, and those issued by other observers and member governments on the ongoing vote tabulation process in Guyana. If the tabulation of Region 4 results is not immediately and satisfactorily addressed in accordance with the ruling of the Acting Chief Justice, this would represent a serious violation of the fundamental political values of the Commonwealth,” she said in a statement.

SG Scotland noted that the ruling of acting Chief Justice Roxane George was unambiguous that public and transparent tabulation of the SoPs is required to ensure the credibility of the process. In addition, she stated that the ruling also addresses continued contentions regarding the tabulation and declaration of election results.
“I am deeply concerned that the Returning Officer for Region 4 has so far refused to comply with the ruling of the Court. Further, it is regrettable that contempt of court proceedings against the Guyana Elections Commission had to take place today 13 March. This morning’s 13 March ruling from the Chief Justice leaves no doubt that the Returning Officer for Region 4 is now required to ensure that all those present can transparently view the actual Statement of Polls during the tabulation process. The tabulation of results in Region 4 must be fully conducted in accordance with the ruling of the acting Chief Justice,” the statement said.
Baroness Scotland reminded that the Commonwealth Charter, to which Guyana ascribes, recognises the inalienable right of individuals to participate in democratic processes, in particular through free and fair elections in shaping the society in which they live. She went on to say that there is still time for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), including the Chairperson, the Commissioners, the Chief Elections Officer, and Returning Officer for Region 4 to ensure democracy is preserved in Guyana.

United Nations
Meanwhile, Spokesman for the United Nations Secretary-General, Stéphane Dujarric said that SG António Guterres is concerned about reports of continued tensions in Guyana following the March 2 General and Regional Elections.
“The Secretary-General welcomes the High-Level Mission of Heads of Government from Caricom countries, which visited Guyana from 11 to 12 March. He encourages all stakeholders to continue their cooperation with Caricom. The Secretary-General urges all political leaders and their supporters to resolve any dispute over the results of the elections through constitutional and peaceful means,” a statement from the SG’s Office noted.