–Chief of Defence Staff says ranks free to vote based on their own assessment; hails smooth process

Early voting for Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks got off to a smooth start on Friday morning at Base Camp Ayanganna.

Casting the first ballot, Chief of Defence Staff, Omar Khan told reporters that the process has thus far been ‘organised and smooth’. The GDF foresees no hiccups as the day progresses.

“My experience just now was a very organized and smooth one, and I want to thank all those who are responsible for ensuring that this was done successfully. I do not anticipate any issue, because all soldiers are expressing and exercising the democratic right to participate in this beautiful and important process,” the Army Chief said.

There are some 24 polling stations across the country where 3,106 army ranks will cast their ballots.

“As you know, traditionally, the joint services would vote before the general public would vote, and that is scheduled for the first of September. Throughout the day, soldiers will decide without coercion, vote as the right is so deemed to each one of them, and I expect no issue throughout the day.”

The Guyana Elections Commission had stated yesterday that it was ‘adequately prepared’ to facilitate the over 10,000 ranks from the Discipline Services who will be casting their ballots today ahead of the September 1 General and Regional Elections.

Ballots were dispatched as early as Thursday to Regions Two, Three, Five and Six.

Ballots for Regions Seven, Eight and Nine will depart the city this morning by air.