Home News US Embassy issues “security alert” ahead of elections result declaration
With fears of post-election declaration protests looming, the US Embassy in Georgetown on Thursday issued a “security alert” and guidelines for its citizens, in the event of such occurrences.
The security alert was issued on the US Embassy’s website, advising US Government personnel to take precautions.
The statement reads: “Host country security and law enforcement will likely have an increased presence before and after the announcement of the elections results in the coming weeks. It is possible that large crowds could gather at Government venues. US Government personnel have been advised to take precautions to prepare for any unexpected disruptions to their normal routine.”
The US Embassy, located in Kingston, Georgetown, went on to share a list of actions their personnel should take in the event that their fears come to fruition.
Personnel were advised to avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, monitor local media sources such as radio and television reports, and exercise caution if they unexpectedly wound up in the vicinity of a protest.
The US Embassy was also keen to note that even peaceful protests could quickly become violent.
The official declaration for Guyana’s March 2 General and Regional Elections is expected to be made soon.
Only on Wednesday, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) met with Police Commissioner Leslie James to discuss a number of issues, including the possibility of post-elections violence.
According to Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali, the Top Cop assured that all systems are in place to deal with such situations should they arise.