By Mark DaCosta- In a controversial and widely debated decision, the government has now resolved that individuals currently incarcerated will not be permitted to participate in the upcoming elections, scheduled for September 2025, despite clear constitutional provisions suggesting their eligibility. This stance has ignited considerable discontent amongst various segments of society, who argue that it undermines fundamental democratic rights. Prominent figures such as Vincent Alexander of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) firmly assert that denying prisoners their voting rights is an infringement on the liberties of citizens, regardless of their legal status.
GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj has clarified that while the law does not explicitly prevent the majority of prisoners from voting, logistical and legislative frameworks are inadequate to facilitate their participation in the electoral process. During a recent discussion, he stated, “GECOM is not stopping prisoners from voting — but there’s no system to let it happen.”
According to Article 159 of our Constitution, only those convicted of election-related offences lose their voting rights, which means most prisoners are entitled to vote. However, the Representation of the People Act lacks the provisions needed to enable this process, leaving many to question the government’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights.
Reflecting on recent discussions, Gunraj acknowledged considerations were being made regarding prisoner enfranchisement. He noted that the Chair of GECOM would address the matter with the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, who serves as GECOM’s legal advisor. His comments followed calls from opposition commissioner Vincent Alexander for greater clarity and action, pointing out the chair’s previous concerns about legal restrictions on communication with incarcerated citizens. Alexander argued that it should be possible to compile a list of inmates in a manner similar to the disciplined services, thereby allowing them to vote without needing direct contact.
Tensions have since escalated following a statement from the Bartica United Youth Development Group (BUYDG), which has been vocal in its demands for the inclusion of all eligible citizens held in prison to participate in elections. BUYDG has challenged the notion that legal barriers prevent prisoners from being informed about their voting rights and the electoral process. They have laid out comprehensive proposals designed to facilitate voting, underscoring their view that the current stance taken by GECOM and the ruling party is not only unfounded but potentially politically motivated. Reports from the group indicate a sense of frustration over the perceived neglect of human rights and the welfare of inmates, particularly in light of serious allegations regarding the treatment of prisoners.
The BUYDG believes that the unwillingness to extend voting rights is rooted in a fear that disenfranchised individuals might reject the current administration due to their negative experiences while incarcerated. They have called for a constitutional motion to safeguard inmate voting rights, viewing this issue as a matter transcending party lines. The group has expressed its readiness to pursue legal action if necessary and has extended an offer to engage in dialogue with GECOM officials to advocate for these essential rights.
As the debate heats up, various human rights organisations have weighed in, with the Carter Center having said that our nation should ensure the voting rights of inmates in accordance with international standards. This situation poses fundamental questions about democratic inclusion and governance in our homeland, as citizens and groups continue to call for accountability and action from those in power.
The decision to prevent incarcerated citizens from voting in the upcoming elections has been met with considerable pushback, as many advocate for the protection of constitutional rights and the inclusion of all citizens in the democratic process.
