THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), on Sunday, called for peace to prevail as the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) prepares to make a major announcement on the March 2, 2020 general and regional elections.
In a press release, the ERC said that it is mindful of the extended period it has taken thus far for the results of the March 02, 2020, General and Regional elections to be declared.
“The commission is also mindful of the discontent the wait for the declaration has inevitably precipitated among our people and concerns that eventually led to a national recount of ballots cast,” the ERC said.
It said that as a commission birthed out of political discord and which is constitutionally mandated to foster harmony and good relations, “it was extremely heartened when H.E. President David Granger and Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, agreed to the national recount of ballots under the auspices of CARICOM.”
The ERC said that despite challenges, the recount has ended, the obligatory report by the
Chief Elections Officer submitted and the nation awaits an announcement by the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). “The commission therefore wishes to take this opportunity to urge all Guyanese to remain calm and to demonstrate a profound sense of tolerance and respect in view of the significant announcement expected from GECOM.”
The commission reminded that in a press statement on March 04, 2020, which alluded to its initial findings having observed the electoral process in some polling stations in parts of Regions, Three, Four, Five, Six, and 10, commended the collective efforts of all involved for ensuring that democracy was safeguarded and prevailed during the said process.
“In addition, the commission, having pointed out that overall on elections day voters were able to freely cast their ballots in an atmosphere of peace and that the few instances which necessitated the intervention of law enforcement, were timely resolved, the voting and counting processes observed, were found, despite some minor hiccups, to be free, fair and transparent,” the release said.
It noted that the adherence of those processes to the basic tenets of democracy is vital to the promotion of unity, national harmony and good relations. “While anxieties unavoidably prevail over the impending announcement and what it can possibly derive, the commission calls upon the leaders and members of all political parties, civil society organisations, constitutional bodies and Guyanese in general, to act in a responsible manner in an effort to safeguard the interest of Guyana and all of its citizens,” the ERC pleaded.
The ERC also urges that the results, when announced, be respected and reiterates its call for the implementation of a necessary collective effort from all national stakeholders endeavouring to build a cohesive and prosperous nation.
Source: https://issuu.com/guyanachroniclee-paper/docs/guyana_chronicle_epaper_06_15_2020