GECOM Commissioners Condemn Disruptions and Delay in Decision-Making

Opposition-nominated Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)—Vincent Alexander, Carl Corbin, and Desmond Trotman—have expressed strong concern over the ongoing disruptions and delays in the Commission’s decision-making process, which they say are hindering progress on critical matters ahead of the 2025 elections.

In a letter published today the Commissioners pointed out that on December 17, 2024, during the last meeting of the Commission, a proposal was put forward to ensure there would be no recess over the holiday period, except for public holidays. This proposal, they explained, was made in light of urgent and time-sensitive matters that required attention, particularly those related to General and Regional Elections constitutionally due this year.

The Opposition Commissioners said the proposal was blocked by a 4-3 vote, which has become a consistent pattern in GECOM’s decision-making process. As a result, it was decided that the next meeting would be rescheduled for January 7, 2025.

When the January 7 meeting arrived, the Opposition-nominated Commissioners said they were informed that two of the government-nominated Commissioners would be absent due to personal commitments. As a consequence, the meeting was canceled for lack of quorum.

This latest disruption has further delayed the Chairman’s review of the discussion on the introduction of enhanced biometrics—an issue that had already been under discussion for four previous sessions.

The Opposition-nominated Commissioners criticised the ongoing delays and what they described as “nonchalance” regarding critical matters. They emphasised that some members of the Commission appear to be actively obstructing progress, with time being used as a deliberate factor to avoid making necessary decisions.

They warned that this behavior, which they termed “shenanigans,” is not only delaying deliberations but could ultimately derail important decisions that are essential for the smooth functioning of the election process.

The call for biometrics and a new voters list for the next elections is seen as importance to the credibility of the electoral processes. Guyana’s voters roll is more than two-third of its national population. A fact that has not escaped international and recommend to comply a now voters list by organisations such as the CARICOM, Carter Centre and Organisations of American States (OAS).

The statement also expressed concern about the lack of urgency in addressing critical issues that will impact the 2025 elections. The  commissioners highlighted the detrimental effect these delays could have on the Commission’s ability to effectively prepare for the upcoming elections and ensure a transparent and credible process.

Ret’d Justice Claudette Singh-headed commission is the most polarised in GECOM’s existence as evidenced by the chairperson’s voting record that consistently aligns with the People’s Progressive Party (PPP)-nominated Commissioners. This record fosters distrust among significant sections of society a polarised Singh-commission can ever provide free, fair and credible elections.

Meanwhile the Opposition-nominated Commissioners have called for a return to focus and cooperation within GECOM, urging all members of the Commission to prioritise the needs of the country and its citizens over political interests will resonate. These commissioners have stressed the importance of working together to make decisions that will ensure free, fair, and timely elections.