— Figueira urges respect for results of 2025 polls

Former PNC/APNU Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira, who has since crossed over to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), has issued a strong call for political maturity, urging all sides to accept the results of Guyana’s 2025 General and Regional Elections.

Figueira described acceptance as “the highest form of patriotism and love for our people and country,” stressing that the will of the electorate must be respected if democracy is to thrive.

Reflecting on the September 1 polls, he noted that both international and local observer missions confirmed that the elections were free, fair, transparent, and peaceful. Citizens were able to cast their ballots without fear or intimidation, and the credibility of the process has been widely endorsed.

“To challenge such an outcome without evidence is not only reckless but dangerous; it undermines faith in democracy itself,” Figueira cautioned.

He highlighted that the electorate delivered a clear and resounding mandate to President Irfaan Ali and the PPP/C, which captured eight of the ten administrative regions, including traditional opposition strongholds such as Regions Four and Ten.

“This was not a fluke. It was the product of promises kept, development delivered and a vision of unity that resonated across the country,” Figueira said.

Turning to the opposition, Figueira acknowledged the shock of losing not just nationally but in once-secure bastions of support. However, he emphasised that defeat should be seen not as an end, but as an opportunity for renewal.

“Political history is full of shifting allegiances and evolving landscapes. Today’s governing party may one day sit in opposition, just as today’s defeated parties may rise again. But for that cycle to remain intact, every player must respect the sovereignty of the electorate,” he explained. “

As such, he urged opposition parties to regroup, reconnect with their base, and prepare themselves to play their role as a loyal opposition, ready to hold government accountable, while positioning for future leadership.

Against this backdrop, he underscored that acceptance of the results is not merely a political courtesy but a democratic obligation.

“Political authority flows from the ballot box, and to deny it is to deny the very people one aspires to serve,” Figueira stated.

However, he warned that obstructing the government’s mandate with denial would obstruct the progress of the nation itself. Conversely, acceptance opens the way for reconciliation, stability, and peace, conditions that attract investment, strengthen democracy, and create opportunities for all Guyanese.

“Now is the time for unity,” Figueira declared.

“The government must govern. The opposition must regroup. The people must be allowed to move forward in peace. In doing so, all parties demonstrate loyalty not merely to their bases but to Guyana as a nation. Democracy demands nothing less.”

Figueira extended congratulations to President Irfaan Ali, reiterating that the electorate has endorsed his vision of growth, equity, and inclusivity.

“Let us not hinder progress. Instead, let us work together for a brighter, stronger, and more united Guyana,” he appealed.