By Mark DaCosta- The Working People’s Alliance (WPA) has raised alarms over potential instability in Guyana due to unresolved electoral issues, urging the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to address concerns about the voters’ list and the implementation of biometric systems.
In a recent press release, the WPA expressed deep apprehension regarding GECOM’s decisions on the Official List of Electors (OLE) and the absence of biometric measures for the forthcoming elections. The party emphasised that these unresolved issues could lead to instability, especially given the political divisions within the commission. The WPA stressed the pivotal role of the GECOM chairperson in fostering compromise between divided factions but lamented the perceived failure to balance concerns from all sides, potentially skewing the electoral process.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the WPA underscored that the opposition faces a dilemma: either boycott an election they deem pre-rigged or participate without confidence in its fairness. Drawing parallels to other nations where such scenarios have led to post-election unrest, the WPA questioned why GECOM and the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) would risk courting disorder.
According to analysts, the WPA’s concerns are not without merit. There is a widespread belief that GECOM’s chairperson, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, consistently aligns with the PPP-appointed commissioners. This perception is bolstered by observations that her decisions often mirror the PPP’s stance, leading to accusations of partisanship. Such consistent alignment raises questions about GECOM’s independence and the credibility of the electoral process. In November 2024, Justice Singh addressed these allegations, stating, “I make my own decision… I have the casting vote… I make my own decisions; it’s not that I am voting with the PPP.” However, many Guyanese believe that her defensive statement lacks any credibility.
The integrity of the voters’ list remains a contentious issue. The WPA, alongside other opposition parties, has been vocal about the need for a sanitised OLE to prevent voter impersonation and ensure electoral integrity. They advocate for house-to-house registration to create a new, accurate voters’ list. Dr. David Hinds, WPA Co-Leader, has indicated the party’s willingness to support a short delay in elections to facilitate this process, stating, “We are hoping that there is no need for a delay, but if a short delay would allow for all the possibilities for manipulation to be taken care of, we are prepared to support that delay.”
The introduction of biometric systems at polling stations is another critical concern. The WPA argues that enhanced biometrics would significantly reduce the risk of voter impersonation and bolster confidence in the electoral process. Despite these calls, GECOM has yet to implement such measures. Justice Singh has acknowledged the need for discussion on biometrics but in the same breath, she said that enhanced biometrics is not feasible. Again, her position mirrors that of the PPP.
The WPA has criticised this approach, asserting that GECOM should consult stakeholders before finalising decisions on biometrics. They argue that stakeholder input is crucial for informed decision-making and that delaying such consultations undermines the process. Dr. Hinds emphasised the importance of addressing voter impersonation, stating, “This issue goes to the heart of electoral integrity.”
The potential consequences of ignoring these issues are severe. The WPA warns that proceeding with elections under the current conditions could lead to significant unrest, given the country’s deep political and ethnic divisions. The party has repeatedly warned that the combination of these divisions with unresolved electoral issues could make the upcoming elections the most ethno-politically divisive since 1961.
In light of these concerns, the WPA is advocating for public protests to pressure GECOM into action. They believe that mass mobilisation is necessary to ensure that the electoral process is free, fair, and credible. The party asserts that without addressing the flaws in the current system, the legitimacy of the upcoming elections will be in question, potentially leading to instability.
The WPA’s call to action underscores the urgency of electoral reform in Guyana. As the nation approaches the next elections, the need for a credible and transparent process is paramount. Addressing concerns about the voters’ list, implementing biometric systems, and ensuring the impartiality of GECOM are essential steps toward safeguarding the nation’s democracy and preventing potential unrest.
