THE Guyana Elections Commission’s decision to ban cell phones in polling stations for the September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections is a vital move to protect Guyana’s democracy.
This action addresses the growing risk of vote buying and manipulation that many democracies face today.

The Commission’s policy fills a major gap in modern elections: corrupt individuals using technology to verify bought votes. When voters can take pictures of their marked ballots, the key principle of ballot secrecy, essential to democratic freedom, becomes meaningless.

Instead of voting freely and privately, elections could become a transaction where votes are traded for money, gifts, or favours.
The penalties set by GECOM, including fines of G$65,000 and possible prison sentences of up to six months, highlight the seriousness of these issues and the Commission’s commitment to enforcing the rules. Critics who view this ban as restrictive do not fully understand the purpose of protections in a democracy.

Democracy does not mean unlimited freedom to act; it involves controlled liberty that protects the vulnerable from the powerful. The suggestion that voters should keep their phones in polling stations overlooks the reality of “proof voting” schemes, where people face pressure to display photographic proof of their votes. Such practices turn the voting booth from a private space into an environment for intimidation and bribery.

On the international stage, GECOM’s stance is justifiable. Electoral officials globally have recognised that while technology can be beneficial, it can also threaten the integrity of elections when used unchecked in polling places.

GECOM’s alignment with these global best practices showcases its professionalism and commitment to democratic growth, especially considering Guyana’s challenging electoral history. The country cannot afford a repeat of past issues that have undermined public trust and international credibility.
The enforcement measures outlined by GECOM, including clear signs, regular announcements, and strategically placed voting booths for observation, strike a strong balance between ensuring privacy and preventing fraud.

The temporary collection of identification documents and designated phone storage areas provide practical solutions that respect voters’ belongings while minimising opportunities for coercion.
These new rules add to existing safeguards, such as indelible ink, the presence of party agents, and police security, creating multiple layers of defense against electoral manipulation. While the timing of this policy, just before the election, may raise concerns, the urgency reflects the seriousness of the threat.
Recent allegations and actual incidents of vote buying make it clear that this risk is very real. GECOM’s co-operation with the Guyana Police Force demonstrates its serious commitment to

enforcement and sends a strong message that electoral crimes will face tough consequences.
When political opponents unite for protective actions, it solidifies the necessity and appropriateness of the policy. Those few who disagree seem more focused on gaining a political advantage than on upholding democratic values.

Ultimately, GECOM’s ban on cell phones demonstrates institutional courage in addressing modern challenges. The Commission has chosen to prioritise the integrity of elections over convenience, democracy over digital ease, and protection of citizens over political gain.

This policy will help ensure that the elections on September 1 truly reflect the will of the Guyanese people, free from the corrupting influences of bought votes or coerced choices. For a country building its democratic foundations and economic future, no outcome could be more important.