The Carter Center’s election observation mission has called on Guyana’s Elections Commission (GECOM) to publish detailed tabulation procedures and improve public communication as the September 1 elections approach. The Center warned that lack of information could undermine confidence in the electoral process.
In its report, the Center urged all political parties to sign the Ethnic Relations Commission’s code of conduct, expressing concern over APNU and the Forward Guyana Movement’s refusal to do so. The code aims to prevent hate speech and divisive campaigning.
While the elections are on track, the Center noted that many recommendations from the 2020 elections remain unaddressed, and civil society still struggles to understand new procedures. GECOM must clarify the tabulation process to avoid confusion on election night.
The mission also highlighted worries about GECOM’s impartiality, particularly due to reliance on the Attorney General for legal advice, raising conflict of interest concerns. It welcomed plans to recruit an independent legal adviser.
Despite a generally peaceful campaign, the Center reported incidents of intimidation against public workers and opposition candidates, as well as challenges faced by the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party. Concerns were raised about the banking sector’s response to U.S. sanctions, which led to account closures for numerous WIN candidates, potentially deterring political participation.
The Carter Center will issue a preliminary statement following the elections and a full report in the months afterward.
APNU Candidate Juretha Fernandes Criticizes PPP’s Treatment of Indigenous Communities
