The Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), led by Presidential Candidate Amanza Walton Desir, has officially declined to sign the Ethnic Relations Commission’s (ERC) proposed Elections Code of Conduct for the 2025 General and Regional Elections, citing serious concerns about the document’s lack of enforceability, equity, and transparency.
In a formal communication submitted to the ERC, Walton Desir outlined the party’s objections, noting that while FGM welcomed the initiative’s intent, the draft Code fell short of the basic standards needed to ensure a fair electoral environment.
“We welcomed the spirit behind the ERC’s initiative,” said Walton Desir. “We believe in peace, tolerance, and responsible political discourse. However, for the Code to be meaningful, it must be more than symbolic. It must be credible, enforceable, and rooted in equity.”
Among the core issues raised in the party’s submission were the voluntary and non-binding nature of the Code despite language suggesting possible sanctions, the absence of a transparent complaints and investigation process, and the lack of accountability for institutions such as GECOM, the police, and state media.
Forward Guyana also criticised the document’s failure to offer protection or equitable treatment for smaller or emerging political parties—a key concern in a rapidly evolving political landscape.
“Signing a document with no mechanisms for redress, no equal treatment, and no consequences for breaches would not serve the public interest,” Walton Desir added. “We cannot lend our credibility to a process that does not treat all parties fairly or guarantee the integrity of the elections.”
Despite these concerns, Forward Guyana emphasized its commitment to peaceful campaigning and called for renewed dialogue with the ERC to develop a more robust and inclusive framework.
“We stand ready to work with all partners to strengthen democratic norms and preserve the peace,” said Walton Desir. “But symbolism must give way to substance if Guyana is to move forward.”
The ERC has acknowledged receipt of FGM’s recommendations but has yet to initiate further discussions or indicate whether revisions to the Code will be pursued.
Forward Guyana’s position adds to growing scrutiny over the role and credibility of oversight institutions in the lead-up to the 2025 elections, with critics calling for greater transparency, inclusivity, and institutional reform.
