A notable rise in the number of Guyana Police Force (GPF) officers casting their ballots was observed this year. This was according to the Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken during an interview at the GPF Officers’ Mess Hall, at Yonge Street, Georgetown, where part of the Disciplined Services early voting ahead of the September 1 General and Regional Elections occurred.
According to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), a total of 6909 police officers were scheduled to vote. Scores of officers were already lined up before 05:00h, eager to ensure their votes were cast. Commissioner Hicken was the first to cast his ballot and underscored the importance of members of the Force exercising their democratic right. He also stated that he would be visiting polling stations across the country to ensure the voting process was conducted smoothly.
“The process in terms of GECOM, I think, based on what I’ve observed they’re on time and everything is going smoothly,” Commissioner Hicken said. Regarding the management of the polling stations, he added that the respective Commanders will be on the ground to oversee operations.
Highlighting the increase in police turnout this year, the Commissioner noted that the Force is prepared to handle the larger number of voters and does not anticipate any disruptions. President Irfaan Ali also visited the polling station to observe the process. “I’ve seen it’s a very smooth process, a very efficient process. You can also see the notices, telling voters about the secrecy of the ballot. So, what I’ve seen this morning [Friday] is a very smooth and efficient process,” the President said.
He also addressed reports that some party agents were not permitted to enter the polling stations. “Some parties did not give the certificate to their agents, their qualifications. What I heard from the Deputy Chief Election Officer (CEO) is that their name was on a mass list. The party did not fulfill the responsibility of giving them that appointment. It is not that the PPP is a tested and oiled machinery,” he explained. The early voting exercise allows police officers, along with other members of the disciplined services, to carry out their duties on Election Day while still participating in the democratic process. This year’s increased turnout among police officers underscores a stronger commitment to civic participation and the electoral process.
