THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the envoys of Britain, Canada and the United States of America (USA)have added their voices to the unfortunate incident that unfolded in ‘C’ Field Sophia on Monday evening. Their concerns and opinions were expressed at a press briefing in the boardroom of the PSC yesterday. Chairman of the PSC, Ramesh Persaud, along with Gerald “Gerry” Gouveia,Chairman of Governance and Security within the PSC, expressed their satisfaction about the response from the police as well as their dissatisfaction about the outcome of the incident.
Persaud stated that the incident transmitted fear to the business community, which led to the closing of most businesses yesterday. He added that it was all out of precaution and hope that the incident will not escalate further. In high spirits, he stated that the Guyana Police Force as well as the Guyana Defence Force are to be applauded for their diligent work.
Gouveia, on the other hand, endorsed Persaud’s sentiments as well as those of Canadian High Commissioner, Nicole Giles and British High Commissioner to Guyana, James Quinn and the US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, Bryan Hunt.
In his remarks, Hunt underscored that the electoral system as well as the security system are intact, as was evident from the quick response by the police to the incident.
“The security forces did their job as they responded quickly, as well as the political parties’ leaders, which shows that the system worked the way it was ought to work,” lauded Hunt.
Meanwhile, Giles noted that the police response shows that the systems and processes worked and will undoubtedly continue to protect the integrity of the voting process during a difficult situation. She then stated that this is enough proof that one can have a certain level of confidence in this country.
Irregularities
At the briefing, questions were raised about irregularities or misdeeds during Monday’s proceedings, as well as hindrances faced by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) in delivering prompt results. Gouveia said that thus far, there have been rumours circulating, but no materials have reached the commission that would have led them to question the results.
“We did get reports and have responded to the rumours to verify what is happening, but they were not material enough to flaw the process of the results,” said Gouveia.
Adding to that, Gouveia said that the commission is aware that persons are being misinformed, as such, they urged them to understand the situation and act responsibly.
Smooth Observations
Meanwhile, Gouveia in his early remarks, underscored the fact that the private sector worked closely with the Electoral Assistance Bureau (EAB) through which approximately 800 observers were spread across the country on Monday.
“We have nothing but excellent reports of the process as it went well and our observers were respected. We had no issue on Monday and are very confident that this process was a free and fair one,” lauded Gouveia.
Gouveia then noted that the commission met with private business persons across the country and they expressed their confidence in the security system.
Statement of polls
Gouveia also disclosed that the commission is using helicopters as well as other mediums to gather Statements of Poll in the hinterland; and as such, were expected to arrive yesterday afternoon.
Lastly, all members of the head table underscored their anticipation of the final results, so that businesses could breathe freely since they play a huge role in the development of Guyana. Also, they urged the public to give GECOM the time and space to deliver credible results.