AFC and GTUC Hold Key Meeting on Free, Fair and Credible Elections

By Mark DaCosta- The Alliance for Change (AFC) and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) recently held an important meeting to discuss various national concerns, most notably the looming General and Regional Elections. Held on Thursday, February 13, 2025, the meeting provided a platform for participants to voice their concerns regarding the preparedness of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in conducting elections. The dialogue took place in a constructive and respectful environment, where both sides were able to share their views candidly.

The primary focus of the discussions was the upcoming elections, which are due in a matter of months. Both the AFC and the GTUC raised concerns about GECOM’s readiness to oversee a credible electoral process. Both organisations expressed a mutual apprehension about the integrity of the voter list and the need for transparency throughout the entire process. Notably, both parties agreed that the introduction of biometric identification at polling stations could help enhance the credibility of the elections, ensuring that voters are accurately identified and reducing the likelihood of electoral fraud.

Another significant topic of the meeting was the idea of a broader national approach to governance. The AFC and GTUC agreed that a collective effort involving political leaders, religious groups, and other civil society organisations would be crucial in steering the nation towards sustainable development. They recognised that national progress could not be achieved through partisan efforts alone but would require the collaboration of all sectors of society.

The meeting was attended by several key figures from both organisations. The AFC was represented by its leader, Nigel Hughes, along with other prominent members such as Chairman David Patterson MP, Khemraj Ramjattan MP, Cathy Hughes MP, Beverley Alert MP, Dianna Rajcumar, and Laura George. On the other side, the GTUC was represented by its President, Norris Witter, and General Secretary, Lincoln Lewis. The meeting took place at the AFC’s Headquarters, the Centre for Change.

The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) has long been an influential voice in the nation’s labour movement. Established in 1941, initially as the British Guiana Trades Union Council, the GTUC has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights of workers across various sectors. As an umbrella organisation, it brings together a range of unions, representing workers in key industries throughout the country.

The GTUC’s main functions are centred around advocating for workers’ rights, engaging in collective bargaining on behalf of its members, and providing educational opportunities to union members on topics such as workplace safety and labour law. It also works to promote policies aimed at improving the social and economic conditions of workers and their families. The GTUC has consistently sought to ensure that the needs and voices of the working class are heard, and its leadership under President Norris Witter and General Secretary Lincoln Lewis continues to advocate for a better future for all workers in Guyana.

The meeting between the AFC and the GTUC marks a significant step in fostering dialogue between political and civil society leaders.