-as men, women in uniform head to polls today

-contesting parties outline individual plans in last-ditch effort to secure support

MEMBERS of various political parties have called on personnel from the Disciplined Services to cast their votes in their favour ahead of the special voting day scheduled for Friday.

In a powerful letter addressed to the members of Guyana’s Disciplined Services, President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister Brigadier, (Ret’d) Mark Phillips reaffirmed the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)’s unwavering commitment to national security and the welfare of those who protect the country.

The message, which doubles as both recognition and a rallying call ahead of general elections, outlined the government’s accomplishments over the past five years and its vision for the future.

“The safety of our borders and the security of our people are the foundation of the new prosperity we are building together,” the letter opens, immediately placing the role of the Joint Services at the heart of national development.

“Just as you protect our nation, we are committed to ensuring that your families live in safety and security as well. We recognise your vital role, and we will continue to equip and support you so that both your service and your loved ones are safeguarded with dignity and pride.”

President Ali and Prime Minister Phillips emphasised that the government not only appreciates the contributions of the security forces but has taken concrete steps to improve their lives and careers. “The PPP/C does not merely commend your service; we reward it. Over the past five years, we have restored dignity, improved conditions, and provided the tools you need to serve our beloved Guyana with pride. We have kept our promise to you.”

The letter underscored that prosperity must extend beyond the individual service member to their entire family. “Your families, too, must share in this prosperity. Across the country, you have seen the changes we are delivering: better roads, new schools, more scholarships and learning opportunities, modern hospitals, stronger healthcare, expanded housing, and much more.”

Significant achievements were highlighted as proof of the government’s track record. “Over the past five years, we have restored the one-month tax free bonus resulting in $2 billion more per year to the disciplined services. We increased salaries, adjusted the pay scale upward, accelerated promotions, improved working conditions, provided more training and scholarships and much more.”

Looking ahead, President Ali and Prime Minister Phillips committed to expanding support even further. “In the next five years, our joint services can look forward to higher wages and salaries, support in owning their own homes, expanded scholarship opportunities, childcare facilities, greater opportunities for promotion, expanded access to healthcare, recreational facilities and a healthier working environment.”

The central message of the letter is that national safety and prosperity are deeply connected to the well-being of those who serve. “When you have the right tools, training, and support, Guyana is safer. When your families are cared for, your service grows stronger. And when your sacrifices are honoured, the entire nation stands more secure and united.”

The President and Prime Minister contrasted the PPP/C’s track record with that of other political parties, asserting their government as the only viable path forward. “The PPP/C has the track record, the vision, and the will to deliver. Others may promise, but we have proven—time and again—that we act, not just speak.”

As the nation moves closer to Election Day, the message concluded with a direct call to action: “On Election Day, the choice is clear: only the PPP/C can keep your families, your careers, and our nation safe, stable, and strong. Together, let us move Guyana forward—in unity, in strength, and in prosperity.”

APPEAL FOR SUPPORT

Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to the Disciplined Services, Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton, who is also the presidential candidate of A Party for National Unity (APNU), appealed for their support, emphasising the coalition’s commitment to improving the lives of those who serve.

Expressing gratitude for their courage and daily sacrifices, he wrote, “Every day, you and your colleagues in the Disciplined Services engage in selfless acts of dedication and courage to protect our safety, uphold the law, protect our territorial integrity, and preserve our freedoms and patrimony.”

The party urged service members to vote based on reason, not emotion, stating, “The decision about which party to support should not be based on emotions! Rather, it should be based on an assessment of which party is the best for you, your family and Guyana. That party is the APNU.”

The APNU reminded voters that under the previous APNU government, Joint Services salaries rose by 77 per cent.

If elected to office, APNU promised a 35 per cent salary increase, tax-free income for those earning under $400,000 monthly, an annual one-month bonus, and a $100,000 cash transfer.

The APNU also pledged training for life after service, housing, scholarships, advanced policing tools, and safer working conditions—underscoring its promise to “put people first.”

Leader of the Alliance For Change (AFC), Nigel Hughes, on Thursday issued a passionate appeal to members of the Disciplined Services, calling on them to vote for his party.

In a brief but direct statement, Hughes praised the men and women of the services for their commitment and sacrifice, saying, “You are the ones we call when danger comes. You carry the weight of Guyana on your back.”

He promised that under an AFC government, no member of the Disciplined Services would earn less than $250,000 monthly, and that families of officers killed in the line of duty would receive $10 million in compensation.

Hughes also pledged fair, merit-based promotions, access to scholarships, and greater respect for the contributions of service members.

“You deserve better,” he stated. “The election is about necessary change. It is about purpose, and this is your moment to help change the course of our country. Better must come—and it begins with your vote.”

Further, presidential candidate Azruddin Mohamed of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party has pledged sweeping reforms for members of Guyana’s Joint Services ahead of their vote.

In a statement, the U.S.-sanctioned Mohamed promised increased salaries and allowances, and other forms of support.

He also promised to house lot cost reduction and grants for which the feasibility has been questioned by critics.

“Your sacrifice keeps Guyana safe,” said Mohamed.

He urged service members to vote for a future where their contributions are recognised and rewarded.

This annual practice of early voting ensures that officers from the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), and Guyana Prison Service (GPS) are able to vote while remaining available for election security duties on polling day.

A total of 10,481 personnel is listed to vote, with 6,909 from the GPF, 3,106 from the GDF, and 466 from the GPS.

The ranks will vote at designated balloting stations across the country, using standard ballot papers corresponding to their registered districts. Those unable to vote on August 22 will be able to participate with the general electorate on September 1.

The Guyana Fire Service (GFS), though part of the joint services, will vote on Elections Day.

GECOM has confirmed that votes cast by the Disciplined Services are not counted separately.

Ballots are secured in tamper-proof containers and later mixed with the general ballots on Election Day before counting, maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the process.

To oversee the voting process, Chief Election Officer (CEO), Vishnu Persaud appointed three ballot officers, as announced in the Official Gazette on June 5, 2025, in accordance with the Representation of the People Act, Cap. 1:03. Areana Britton will serve the GDF, Sharon Jethu, the GPF, and Sadhna Boodhanlall, the GPS.

The early voting of security personnel is intended to allow them to fulfil their electoral duties without disrupting the deployment of officers to polling stations on Election Day.

GECOM has emphasised that this process aligns with established procedures and safeguards, ensuring free, fair, and credible elections.