Endorsements Ignite Political Theatre Ahead of Guyana’s Elections

The 2025 General and Regional Elections may be months away, but the political stage is already ablaze with headline-making endorsements that, beneath the surface, may be more spectacle than substance.

In a country where political loyalty often runs deeper than the charisma of individual candidates, recent endorsements by individuals crossing the aisle have stirred more curiosity than confidence. “People with no known support are in effect announcing their intention to support one leader or the other,” wrote Adam Harris in his today’s op-ed. “In reality, that is simply announcing who that person would vote for at the polls.”

These high-profile announcements mirror tactics often seen in the United States, where endorsements by major unions or corporations can sway large voting blocs. But Guyana, Harris argues, is a different reality. “Guyana is a different kettle of fish,” he noted. “In Guyana, the reality is that people do not vote for a personality. They vote for a political party.”

Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton has downplayed the significance of these defections, stating bluntly that the individuals who left his party “won’t carry three votes.” Still, he acknowledged the strategic value of such acts: “It makes for good publicity for the person gaining the endorsement.”

The Ghost of Charisma Past

Gone, it seems, are the days when the likes of Forbes Burnham and Dr. Cheddi Jagan could draw multitudes on foot to campaign rallies. “Those supporters were diehards,” Harris reminisced. “Today, rallies are not so frequent.”

In the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP), where power appears increasingly consolidated, former President Bharrat Jagdeo remains the dominant force—even overshadowing the sitting head of state, President Irfaan Ali. “Jagdeo has maintained an iron grip on the party… He has the power to overturn decisions by the President and he makes no secret of this,” Harris emphasised. “Those who come out to announce their endorsement for Irfaan Ali are in fact endorsing Jagdeo and the PPP.”

The implication suggests that in today’s Guyana, personalities may be visible, but party machinery and political symbolism remain king.

A Ticking Clock and Questions of Fairness

President Irfaan Ali’s recent announcement that elections will be held on September 1, 2025, has already sparked controversy. Opposition commissioners at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) expressed concern, claiming the date contradicted the commission’s own work plan, which reportedly indicated no earlier than September 22.

However, GECOM ret’d Chairperson Justice Claudette Singh later clarified that the constitutional mandate required elections no later than September 1, hence the adjustment.

Still, critics argue the electoral machinery is faltering. The opposition has accused GECOM of failing to guarantee a fair process—pointing to a bloated voters’ list and limited time for objections. “They have five days to identify the problems and to get them corrected. That is simply not enough time,” Harris noted.

Calls for biometric systems to prevent multiple voting have long gone unheeded. Despite the opposition’s persistent advocacy, GECOM “made no effort to facilitate this move,” Harris wrote.

Enter Azruddin Mohamed: Disruptor or Decoy?

The appearance of wealthy businessman Azruddin Mohamed on the political scene has sparked both hope and suspicion. Seen as a potential “new kid on the block,” Mohamed has reportedly caused “shivers in the government ranks.” Yet Norton remains unconvinced, labeling him a possible “support tool for the PPP.”

“If Mohamed secures votes at the polls and secures seats in the House, he could very well pool his resources with the PPP,” Norton warned.

Despite the looming election date, a palpable lack of urgency pervades. Harris observes that “election fever has not gripped the nation,” a sentiment perhaps born from a deep-seated skepticism about the integrity of the process.

With Parliament yet to be dissolved and the campaign trail relatively quiet, questions circulating about whether voters have the tools, time, and transparency they need to cast a confident ballot?

In a country where political parties remain the true vessels of power, endorsements may grab headlines—but they may not move the needle. As Harris candidly puts it, “Someone once said that if one were to put a crapaud to head the PNCR and a donkey to head the PPP, those who are so inclined will vote for either party.”

Whether crapaud, donkey, or mogul, the choices in 2025 may matter less than the system that governs them.