–OAS Chief of mission highlights efforts to strengthen electoral process

THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has received high praise from the Organisation of American States (OAS) for its ongoing efforts to enhance transparency, and strengthen the electoral process.
OAS Chief of Mission, former Prime Minister of Jamaica Bruce Golding, highlighted the Commission’s move to upload the Statements of Poll (SoPs) to its official website as a particularly notable step, saying it allows for greater public scrutiny, and fosters trust in the electoral system.
To avoid a repeat of the disruptive 2020 tabulation process that occurred in Region Four, following the general and regional polls back then, GECOM was mandated by law to publish SoPs to its website, thereby allowing for public scrutiny.
Golding commended GECOM’s commitment to openness and accountability, noting that such initiatives are vital to building confidence in democratic governance.
He noted, however, that while the improvements are welcome, the process will require further adjustments to ensure a less cumbersome approach in ensuring that SoPs are updated at a faster pace.
“We recognise and commend the electoral authorities for the improvement they have made to this process, which supports transparency. At the same time, it would be beneficial to identify ways in which the statements of poll could be published more speedily,” Golding said.
The Mission, comprising 27 experts from 18 countries, observed the entire process, from the opening to the close of polls, as well as the tabulation and recount of votes that concluded last evening.
“We want to commend Guyana’s government officials and electoral authorities for their openness in inviting and facilitating the work of several international and local electoral observation missions present for the 2025 elections. This speaks volumes about the country’s commitment to, and support for, democracy,” Golding added.
He noted that the OAS, in a forthcoming report, will outline its findings, and offer a series of recommendations aimed at strengthening the democratic processes.
Golding hopes that the relevant authorities will give due consideration to these proposals, especially those that have been echoed by previous OAS missions.
“In the execution of our work, we held very constructive dialogue with electoral authorities, government officials, political parties, civil society organisations and the international community, among others,” he said, adding: “This wide-ranging engagement allows the Mission to gain diverse perspectives on the context and organisation of the elections, as well as the overall electoral framework.”
In closing, he said: “We believe strongly that their implementation will contribute to strengthening future electoral processes, and ultimately, democracy in the country… To the people of Guyana, we want to express our deepest admiration for your commitment to democracy; we saw firsthand your peaceful participation and your patience in exercising your civic duty. It is this spirit that is a full foundation of a strong nation.”
On Polling Day, Golding had told reporters there were no major hiccups, as GECOM officials were well equipped and professional.
“I think the people of Guyana deserve to be congratulated on the peaceful and disciplined way in which they have gone out to cast their ballots,” he said on Monday, while engaging reporters at a Georgetown polling station.