The Importance of Voting

Mar 07, 2015 News

In every society that endorses and encourages the free expression of the people, voting is the ultimate expression of democracy at work. One of the key pillars of any such establishment is the right of every eligible person to vote. This fundamental right is accompanied by responsibilities that must be taken seriously by all citizens.
While Laws of Guyana speak to Compulsory Registration, but not Compulsory Voting, it is still very important that you exercise your right to vote on Elections Day. When you vote, you choose the representatives who will make the laws and policies that govern how we live together, among other things.
It is essential to note that leaders elected by a handful of persons do not genuinely reflect democracy. Therefore, one must make the time to vote at the General and Regional Elections on May 11, 2015 and be a part of a true majority in a democratic process.
Every vote counts
Some people fail to vote for many reasons—lack of awareness, apathy, confusion, or even the misguided belief that “my single vote won’t make a difference”. When this latter attitude becomes pervasive, it can be a severe problem in any democratic society. The statistics show that voter apathy seems to be increasing in Guyana.
This is a trend from which citizens need to free themselves, and embrace the responsibility associated with voting. By May 11, having become an informed voter, it is imperative that you vote to make a difference in the lives of your family, your community and the industry in which you work. Remember, every vote counts!
Guyana’s democracy exists upon the principle of free and fair elections in which every eligible citizen must cast a vote for the political party of his/her choice on Election Day. Guyanese must also work assiduously to ensure that the electoral process is conducted in accordance with this principle. It is the responsibility of all Guyanese to protect this electoral process, so do not withdraw your participation. As tedious as the voting process may seem, your full participation is required.
It is a fact that whether you vote or not, someone will be elected President and make decisions that affect you and our beloved country for many years to come. Don’t you think you must have a say in who governs you?
Your Vote is Secret
After your ballot has been properly folded and placed into the transparent ballot box, no one will know for which party you have voted. You can be assured that your vote will forever remain a secret. The freedom to make your own choice on Election Day is totally yours.
Voting early
Although it is preferable that you cast your vote early on Elections Day, please note that voting does continue throughout the day, commencing at 06:00h (6AM) and ending at 18:00h (6PM). All eligible electors should make a special effort to get out as early as possible and vote.
Try to avoid waiting until it is too late to cast your vote. Encourage your family members, neighbours and friends to vote early. If any urgent unforeseen circumstance prevents you from voting on Election Day, be very assured that no one can vote in your place.
Long before Elections (Polling) Day, you should ensure that you check for your name on the Revised List of Electors and the Official List of Electors which will be posted on the walls of prominent places in your community as well as on GECOM’s Website: www.gecom.org.gy

Latest News

The Importance of Voting

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show | November, 20th, 2024

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Welcome and Sattaur hat-tricks power West Ruimvelt’s emphatic win

Mominul, Jaker help Bangladesh avoid follow on

Rutherford’s stunning century in vain as...

Bentick’s hat-trick lifts YMCA to $1M and...

Final batch of tickets for opening match released

NSC to host National Awards Ceremony on Thursday

Features/Columnists

The business class also funds undemocratic parties

Rising Gun Crimes in the Caribbean: Urgent Action required by all

Too many sharks too close for comfort

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]

The Importance of Voting

Share this:

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show | November, 20th, 2024

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Features/Columnists

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]