In the wake of the 2023 European Union Election Follow-up Mission’s final report on Guyana, Recommendation 9 has cast a spotlight on the urgent need to overhaul the nation’s electoral register. While the recommendation emphasized a comprehensive update of the outdated register and improved access to registration, the implementation has seen mixed progress.
A thorough update of the electoral register, a crucial step for ensuring accurate and fair elections, has yet to be realized. The lack of political consensus has stymied efforts to modernise the decade-old register, leaving it in need of significant refreshment to reflect current voter demographics and ensure electoral integrity.
However, there have been notable advancements in the continuous registration system, driven by the National Registration (Amendment) Act 2022. This Act marks a significant shift in the registration landscape. Previously, the registration process was constrained by limited periods during which eligible voters could apply for new registration or make changes. With the new legislation, this process has become more flexible. Voters can now register, update their information, or make corrections throughout the year, barring only two one-month breaks in July and December for finalizing and publishing the official electoral list.
Moreover, the Act introduces clearer procedures for the cancellation of registrations for deceased individuals, an important improvement over the previous reliance on General Elections Commission (GECOM) regulations. This move is expected to streamline the maintenance of an accurate voter register, addressing a key concern in electoral administration. However, for Guyana to fully meet the EU’s recommendations, continued efforts towards a complete update of the voter register (New Voter list) will be essential for any free and fair elections in Guyana.
Pt.Ubraj Narine, JP, COA
Former Staff Sgt.(GDF), Mayor
City of Georgetown
