THE Indian High Commission in Guyana yesterday expressed support Local Government Elections (LGEs) by handing over a cheque in the sum of $8.3M to Chief Election Officer of GECOM, Keith Lowenfield, in the presence of Chairman Steve Surujbally.The presentation event was held at the High Commission’s office at Church and Peter Rose Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown.
According to Indian High Commissioner Shri Venkatachalam Mahalingam, the grant of $8.3M from the Government and people of India is to assist GECOM in its preparation for LGEs scheduled for March 18, 2016.
“Elections are an important aspect of democratic systems and India being the largest democracy in terms of its size and other aspects, we thought that we should show solidarity with the Government of Guyana to conduct elections,” the High Commissioner explained.
He recalled that the High Commission had also assisted with $10.2M for the General and Regional Elections last May.
After receiving the cheque, the Chief Election Officer thanked the High Commissioner for the timely contribution towards the efforts of efficient LGEs in 2016.
GECOM is always grateful for assistance from international partners, Lowenfield said, and the contribution will be utilised for the acquisition of ATVs in one of the municipalities in the North-West District of Mabaruma.
“This will assist our officers on the ground to be more efficient in their delivery of service provided to residents of that community.”