-calls for greater access for differently abled voters, improved polling facilities

AS the nation awaits the official declaration of the 2025 General and Regional Elections, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) is asking Guyanese to be confident in the results for what it calls one of the most peaceful and transparent election cycles and recount processes the country has ever seen.

In a press conference held on Thursday, Chairman Gerald Gouveia Jr., accompanied by Vice-Chairman Kathy Smith and Executive Committee member Christopher “Kit” Nascimento, stated that both the election and recount process were fair and transparent. Although the commission had a few suggestions to make, it emphasised that in no way was the electoral cycle compromised, calling the results “beyond challenge.”

Speaking at the press conference following observation of the recount process, Gouveia described this year’s elections as “one of the most, if not the most, efficient and peaceful elections our nation has ever experienced.”

He praised the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), noting that the process was smooth and transparent according to the PSC’s 150 accredited observers. “We maintain a significant presence in Regions Three, Four, Five, Six, Nine and 10, where our teams were able to witness the voting process, the counting and preparation of the statements of poll, and the regional tabulation. From all observations made across the country, and from the observations we are now making at the recount, the PSC is satisfied that the declaration of results from GECOM is beyond challenge,” Gouveia said.

Regarding the recount process, which was observed on Thursday, he acknowledged that while the idea of a recount may not be welcomed by everyone, it is a necessary part of democracy. “We know that some people may not have welcomed the idea of a recount, but the private sector remains firm that it is part of our democratic process. We may not like it or agree with it, but that is democracy, and we are all in support of a democratic process.”

He added that, like the voting process, the recount was transparent and fair, adding, “We commend the readiness and professionalism of GECOM and the police in facilitating it, keeping the process flowing and safe.”

Gouveia also addressed claims made by some political agents regarding the credibility of the process. “I know that there have been claims raised by some of the political agents at the recount. However, it is our observation that these have been addressed efficiently and properly by GECOM.’

He further added, “As one of the accredited local observer missions, the Private Sector Commission has fielded approximately 150 accredited observers. We are fully confident in GECOM’s execution of both the electoral process and the recount, and we commend them for conducting it in a free, fair, transparent, and efficient manner,” he stated.

While praising the elections, the commission also highlighted areas for improvement. One of the main challenges noted was access and accommodations for differently abled people, an issue raised by other observer missions as well. The PSC also called for clearer signage from the street to polling stations, particularly in larger facilities where confusion was observed. Gouveia also urged improvements to the working environment for staff and voters, recommending better furniture, ventilation, and climate control, especially given the long hours worked during elections.

Expressing gratitude to the commission’s observers, Gouveia commended the Guyanese people and political parties for their professionalism and maturity in preserving democracy through a smooth and transparent process.

“We further commend the people of Guyana for the maturity and patience demonstrated through the electoral process. We thank the political leaders for exercising responsibility, leadership, and respect for the rule of law. Together, we have shown the world that democracy in Guyana is strong and secure, and we will do whatever we need to do as a private sector to continue to monitor and observe the electoral process.”