Over 200 observers participated in LGE 2023

TheGuyana Elections Commission (GECOM) accredited a total of 236 observers representing 10 organisations, who participated in Monday’s (June 12, 2023) Local Government Elections.

Those approved included:

• The Canadian High Commission – 8 observers

• The Embassy of the United States of America – 42 observers

• The British High Commission – 3 observers

• The delegation of the European Union to Guyana – 5 observers

• The International Foundation for Electoral Systems – 8 observers

• The American Chamber of Commerce (Guyana) – 22

Observers

• The Private Sector Commission – 38 observers

• The Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities – 42 observers

• The Ethnic Relations Commission – 61 observers

• The Guyana Public Service Union – 7 observers.

All Local Observer Groups were required to fulfil the following minimum standards: Familiarity and experience with electoral laws and procedures; Previous experience of election monitoring and/ or other relevant experience or know-how and specific training, national and/or international; Interpersonal skills (e.g. capacity of balanced judgement, ability to work in teams, ability to cope with difficult situations, respect for diverse attitudes, good communication skills, readiness to work in a multi-cultural environment); Ability to maintain professional independence and strict impartiality in the conduct of duties; and Demonstrated commitment to democracy and human rights; The involvement of Observers in the electoral process by GECOM was in accordance with the provision of Section 145 B of the Local Authorities (Elections) Act, Chapter 28:03, and in order to enhance transparency, credibility and impartiality in the conduct of the Local Government Elections.

TheEthnic Relations Commission, (ERC), having observed the voting process in five Administrative Regions at over 250 Polling Places for Local Government Elections, made clear that it found it to be free, fair, transparent and conducted in an atmosphere of peace.

In a statement, the ERC said, “The Commission would like to commend Polling Day staff of the Guyana Elections Commission, (GECOM), for the professional execution of their duties and the resulting efficien- cy of the process. The ERC is thankful for the exemplary conduct displayed by polling agents from all sides, and police officers for their security role in ensuring smooth polling.

“The Commission also takes this opportunity to commend citizens for their participation in the incident-free poll and will continue to work to the best of its ability to aid the promotion of harmony and good relations. As the country awaits the final results, the Commission, guided by history, remains mindful that these circumstances can heighten anxieties and hopes the results will be announced within the shortest possible time, and be respected.”

According to the constitutional bod, credible LGE elections is vital for the benefit of citizens and eventual transformation of communities through local democracy – in the regions, villages and towns. “All stakeholders are therefore urged to work assiduously to ensure that communities are developed in the