Implementing Biometrics and EVMs to Safeguard Democracy in Guyana for the Future

Press Freedom, Free Expression, Hijacked- Lall

Pres. Ali on Arrival Day

By Pt Ubraj Narine, JP, COA- As the people of Guyana eagerly await the 2025 general elections, it becomes imperative for the PPP-led government to demonstrate its commitment to democracy by implementing cutting-edge technologies like biometrics and Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). A significant step towards greater electoral transparency and accountability, these advancements offer a chance to ensure a clean voters list and bolster national and international confidence in the electoral process.

Democracy and the Need for Modernisation

Democracy thrives on the bedrock of fair and credible elections. For Guyana to truly embrace democracy, it is essential to adopt technological solutions that ensure accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in the electoral system. The introduction of biometrics, such as fingerprint or iris scanners, would provide foolproof identification of each voter, eliminating any possibility of duplication or impersonation.

Moreover, EVMs offer a range of advantages over traditional paper-based voting systems. They are designed to minimize errors, reduce the scope for malpractices, and enable swift vote counting. By equipping polling stations with EVMs, Guyana can revolutionize its electoral process and align it with modern standards, matching other democratic nations in their commitment to fair elections.

Addressing Concerns about Clean Voters Lists

One of the major challenges faced in our (Guyanese) elections is the existence of inflated voters lists. This discrepancy arises due to various reasons, including outdated records, migration, or even deliberate manipulation. The introduction of biometrics can effectively address this concern by ensuring that every eligible voter is accurately captured in a central database. Biometric registration will combine unique identifiers, such as fingerprints or iris patterns, with essential individual information, resulting in a comprehensive and accurate voters list.

Enhanced Security and Transparency

Biometrics and EVMs also offer heightened security and transparency in the electoral process. With the integration of biometric authentication, the chances of electoral fraud decrease significantly. The precise identification of voters will prevent imposters from casting ballots or individuals from voting multiple times.

Additionally, EVMs eliminate the need for manual vote counting, a process that is prone to human errors and delays. With these machines, results can be tabulated promptly, providing immediate feedback on the outcome of elections. Such efficiency not only enhances public trust but also ensures the timely formation of the government, thus avoiding prolonged periods of uncertainty.

Conclusion

To truly embrace democracy, it is crucial for the PPP-led government to prioritize electoral modernisation. By implementing biometric registration and EVMs in the 2025 general elections, Guyana can take a significant step towards ensuring clean voters list, enhancing transparency, and eradicating electoral malpractices.

These advancements will not only strengthen national and international faith in the electoral process but also demonstrate the government’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles. By aligning with international standards, Guyana will join the league of progressive nations, where technological progress goes hand in hand with fair and credible elections.

The time is ripe for the PPP-led government to seize the opportunity and bring Guyana’s electoral system into the 21st century. Let us reaffirm our commitment to democracy, embracing the transformative power of biometrics and EVMs for a brighter, more accountable future.

Pt.Ubraj Narine, JP, COA is former Staff Sgt.(GDF), Georgetown