AS Guyana gears up for the September 1 General and Regional Elections, Regional Division Three Commander, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Siwnarine, has reminded police ranks of their critical role in ensuring the smooth and secure conduct of the polls.

On Wednesday, August 27, Commander Siwnarine, along with his administrative team, hosted a Pre-Election Briefing at the Regional Police Headquarters in Leonora, West Coast Demerara. The session brought together ranks from across the division, including those scheduled to perform election duties for the first time.
In his address, Commander Siwnarine urged officers to remain vigilant, focused, and alert throughout the electoral process. He emphasised that their conduct would directly impact public confidence in both the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the wider electoral exercise.

“You must maintain professionalism at all times and be ready to respond impartially when required,” he told the officers. He also reminded ranks that whenever action is taken, they must be able to clearly state both the reason and the justification, while always remaining cognisant of their surroundings.

The briefing also covered elections-related offences, including breaches of electoral law, voter intimidation, and attempts to disrupt the process—issues that officers may encounter on polling day and at the close of polls. By outlining these offences, the Commander sought to ensure that all ranks are equipped with the knowledge to respond effectively and lawfully.
Guyana’s security forces have traditionally played a vital role in maintaining law and order during elections, often under heightened scrutiny from both the public and international observers. In this context, Siwnarine stressed the importance of impartiality and neutrality, underscoring that police officers must protect the rights of every voter regardless of political affiliation.
With Election Day just days away, the Pre-Election Briefing in Region Three forms part of a wider national effort to prepare police ranks across the country to manage security, safeguard polling places, and uphold democracy.