Flexible approaches are required at this time

Apr 01, 2015 Editorial

In the current political scenario, the upcoming general elections are eagerly anticipated, yet at this relatively late stage, problems are anticipated. Unfortunately, the opposing political forces are still dissatisfied with various aspects of the electoral process, primarily, the integrity of the voters’ list.
One thing is certain: the 2015 polls must be conducted under a system that is overwhelmingly supported by the Guyanese people and the elections must yield results that can stand up to the most intense local and international scrutiny. Anything less would plunge the country even more deeply into the mire of socio-economic decay.
Since it is so important for the elections to be free and fair, and for the results to be accepted by the vast majority of Guyanese people, then this places a special responsibility on the Government.
In acknowledgement of its national leadership role, one would expect any socially conscious government to go out of its way to accommodate and alleviate, as far as possible, the concerns of all participants in the elections. To do otherwise would be to court dissent unnecessarily and risk continuing the social upheaval that traditionally accompanies elections in Guyana.
In general, the tendency of the opposing parties to be dismissive, even disparaging of each other’s concerns regarding the electoral process, is not the best approach. The results of the last three successive elections show that the opposition has significant support. As such, the views of the elected representatives of opposition supporters cannot be brushed aside as though they are irrelevant.
This is not to say that Government should allow the opposition to hold them to ransom with any unreasonable demand.
With all this being said, it is now time for the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission to assert his known leadership skills and take command. Unless, the Chairman emphasizes his authority and imposes a firm hand on the process leading up to the elections, there is going to be increased apprehension.
Past experience has shown the importance of a united GECOM, and has demonstrated the importance of strong, unwavering leadership within its ranks. We hope that the desired leadership will now come to the fore in these critical stages, so as to assuage the many concerns that are still being raised about the forthcoming elections. More importantly, we hope that expert guidance will repair any breaches that may exist.
An openly united approach to the work of the commission can only but boost confidence in the entire process and will go a far way in appeasing any fears of the electorate and concerns of the contesting parties.
To give credit where it is due, we do believe that GECOM has to this point, done its best to make known its true state of readiness, what is to be done, how it will be done and by whom it will be done.
Money has never been a problem for our national elections. The donor community is aware of the need to ensure that free, fair and efficiently managed elections are held. The money will be found. This is not a bugbear.
Right now, the only problem is likely to be an acceptable voters’ list. It is to be expected that there will be differences, but we reiterate that this can be resolved through decisive and firm leadership in GECOM and within the major parties. Most importantly, flexible approaches are required.
We believe that GECOM has since 1992 developed considerable experience in running off elections. However, unless the electorate is satisfied that there is both the will and the capacity within GECOM to run off efficient and transparent elections, then the clouds of mistrust will continue to hover over the entire process. And this we feel is not good for Guyana.

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Flexible approaches are required at this time

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