–as EU EOM mobilises in preparation of September 1 polls
THE European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM), on Friday, announced the deployment of 50 observers across Guyana in preparation for the country’s upcoming general and regional elections.
According to Chief Observer Robert Biedroń, a Member of the European Parliament, the mission will monitor the electoral process closely and issue a preliminary report within two days after Guyanese citizens cast their votes.
“Elections are more than ballots; they are the foundation of democracy. This is why we are here, with a strong team of observers, to assess the process with professionalism and impartiality,” he said.
The mission is meeting various stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, and constitutional parties.
The EU EOM will observe and analyse the electoral process including legal framework, conduct of campaign activities, involvement of civil society, media coverage and digital and social media platforms
Biedroń said: “We do not only focus on the election day, but on the entire electoral process, including the pre-election environment, the campaign, the tabulation of results and the resolution of any election related complaints.”
He underscored the mission’s independence and impartiality, urging all stakeholders to ensure credible, inclusive, and transparent elections.
The chief observer said: “Our mission is fully independent and impartial. All observers follow a strict code of conduct in line with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation. We aim to contribute to transparency, public confidence, and peaceful participation during this important electoral process.”
A comprehensive final report, which will include recommendations for possible electoral reform, will be published and presented approximately two months after the conclusion of the process.
The EU Election Observation Mission operates in full independence from the EU Delegation in Guyana, EU Member States, and other EU institutions.
The mission arrived in Guyana last week and has since engaged several political parties.
The chief observer said: “This is why we are here, the strong team of observers to assess the process with professionalism and in partially, as international election observers.”
Though no official alliance has been formed, the EU EOM is open to ‘synergies’ with other electoral observers, Biedroń said.