Recount of votes “conducted in free, fair, credible manner”- PSC

– less than half per cent change recorded

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has declared that the recent recount of votes in sub-districts of Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Five (Mahaica-Berbice) was conducted in a “free, fair and credible manner,” reaffirming the integrity of the September 1 General and Regional Elections.
In its statement on Saturday, the PSC Observer Mission noted that the recount, which it witnessed in full, was well organised, secure and strictly aligned with the Representation of the People Act (ROPA).
“No legitimate signs of tampering were observed,” the PSC affirmed, adding that the exercise mirrored the original tabulation with a variance of less than 0.5 per cent. “This recount has underscored the strength of our electoral system. It demonstrates that the will of the people was accurately recorded on Election Day and has served as an important confidence-building measure following the challenges of 2020,” the PSC said. The body commended the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), party agents and local and international observers for their commitment during the marathon exercise.
However, the PSC flagged the need for greater voter education, particularly on what constitutes a spoiled or valid ballot, noting that agents often raised concerns later clarified by law or GECOM’s guidance.
“We also observed room for improvement in the way discrepancies were raised and in the understanding of what constitutes a spoiled or valid ballot. Many concerns were promptly clarified by the law and GECOM’s guidance material, and with more education for agents, the process could be made even more efficient”.
The PSC expressed optimism that with stronger systems now in place, the timely declaration of results will follow and Guyana can move forward with confidence in its democratic institutions.
“The exercise was well organised, secure and closely monitored, with GECOM staff adhering strictly to the Representation of the People Act. We commend GECOM for its hard work and dedication over the last two days, as well as the commitment of party officials and both local and international observers who remained present throughout. All stakeholders worked tirelessly around the clock, ensuring that the process was transparent and that any issues raised were addressed promptly and fairly,” the statement said.

Rejected ballots
While the recount confirmed electoral integrity, official results show that 4126 ballots were rejected across the 10 districts–nearly identical to the 4211 recorded in 2020. District Four, the country’s largest voting district and home to the capital, registered the highest number of rejected ballots at 1417. District Six followed with 650, District Three with 563, and District One with 364.
District Eight recorded the fewest rejected ballots with 103. Other tallies included District Two with 266, District Five with 293, District Seven with 133, District Nine with 151, and District Ten with 186.
Rejected ballots can result from unclear or absent markings, ballots bearing identifying marks, or those missing the official stamp.