Dear Editor:
As Guyana approaches its September 1, 2025, elections, the nation stands at a crossroads. The last thing we need is foreign diplomats acting as self-appointed arbiters of our democratic process. For too long, certain embassies and so-called democracy advocates have inserted themselves into our elections, cloaking their interference as support for “free and fair” outcomes. These actions, whether subtle or overt, erode the sovereignty we hold dear.
Senator Marco Rubio’s recent policy banning U.S. embassies from commenting on foreign elections—unless a clear and compelling American interest exists—deserves applause. Introduced in 2024, Rubio’s stance is a bold corrective to decades of overreach. It aligns with a growing global demand for nations to respect the autonomy of others’ democratic processes.
Guyana is a sovereign democratic republic, governed by its constitution and the will of its people. Yet, election after election, we endure foreign diplomats issuing statements, posting on platforms like X, or making strategic visits that imply judgment on our political process.
In 2020, for instance, U.S. Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch’s public remarks on Guyana’s electoral disputes were perceived by many as signaling favouritism, amplifying distrust among voters. Such actions, even if unintended, cast a long shadow over our institutions and fuel skepticism about our ability to govern ourselves.
Rubio’s policy introduces discipline to U.S. diplomacy. It recognises that democracy cannot be stage-managed from abroad—it must belong unequivocally to the people. By limiting embassy commentary, it curbs the perception that Washington picks winners, a perception that can destabilise fragile political climates. For Guyana, this means a real chance to run elections without external narratives shaping public opinion.
To the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown: Respect our right to self-determination. Diplomacy should mean partnership—offering technical assistance if requested, not issuing unsolicited opinions. Leave the scrutiny to Guyana’s vibrant press, its engaged civil society, and its independent institutions like the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
Critics may label this view “anti-American” or “anti-democracy.” They are mistaken. Guyana values its partnership with the United States, from trade agreements to security cooperation. But respect must be reciprocal. Supporting democracy means trusting Guyanese to manage our own elections, not orchestrating outcomes from afar. Historical examples—like U.S. involvement in Chile’s 1970 elections—remind us that even well-intentioned interference can have lasting consequences.
Rubio’s policy is a safeguard against overreach, ensuring U.S. embassies prioritise American interests—like citizen safety or trade—over soft-power meddling. As Guyana heads toward this pivotal election, we urge all foreign missions to heed this call: Our democracy is not your stage. We don’t need Washington’s validation to affirm the legitimacy of our vote. That authority rests solely with the Guyanese people.
Senator Rubio has taken a principled stand. As a proud Guyanese, I stand with him.
Yours truly,
James Washington
