The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has issued a strong reminder to its ranks that the military remains “apolitical” and that soldiers are strictly barred from participating in political activities, even as concerns mount over the involvement of state security personnel in partisan work during this election cycle.
In a circular to members, seen by this publication, the GDF declared that it does not support or endorse any political party or figure and reaffirmed that its loyalty lies solely with the Constitution of Guyana. The Force underscored that its apolitical posture is central to maintaining professionalism, impartiality, and the trust of the Guyanese people.
“Soldiers are prohibited from attending or participating in political campaigns, rallies, campaigns, or events,” the statement said, while acknowledging that ranks may hold personal political opinions but must keep those views private.
The Force further cautioned that its Intelligence Corps and other monitoring bodies will be actively observing compliance. Any soldier found at political events “will be reported and disciplined” under military regulations.
This advisory has been described by observers as critical to safeguarding the neutrality of the GDF, which, they stress, must serve all citizens and the nation as a whole, not any political party. Yet, despite these principles, the current election season has been marred by reports of members of the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Fire Service, and even GDF officer cadets openly engaging in political work for the governing People’s Progressive Party (PPP).
Such developments have raised alarms about creeping politicisation of the security services, a trend critics warn could erode public trust and undermine the credibility of Guyana’s democratic institutions.
The GDF’s reminder also comes just days before the Disciplined Services are scheduled to vote on Monday, August 22, ahead of the general population, who vote on September 1. The early vote is traditionally seen as a test of the neutrality and integrity of the security forces in the electoral process.
The integrity of the Force, particularly given Guyana’s ethno-political dynamics depends on its neutrality and the appearance of. “Every soldier has a duty to protect this principle by upholding the Constitution above politics,” a retired senior officer told this publication.
