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Nomination Day is positive sign for democratic process – Diplomats
By Nicholas Peters
Political party representatives and their supporters yesterday showed up in droves at Georgetown City
UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative Khadija Musa
Hall to officially enter the race for the May 11 General and Regional Elections, and to members of the diplomatic corps, this symbolised a positive direction for democracy in Guyana.
Supporters crowded the streets in their thousands decked out in the colours of their respective parties, contagiously spreading their excitement as they made their way through the capital city to City Hall on Nomination Day.
For those in the diplomatic corps this “fanfare” was a sight to behold. They had a front row seat to the electoral process as political parties officially submitted their lists of candidates and necessary documentation to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)’s Chief Election Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield.
For many of the foreign dignitaries, this will be their first elections in Guyana with some of them noting a distinctive enthusiasm for the Nomination process that they have not witnessed before. The transparency of yesterday’s event was also commented upon, with the Canadian Deputy High Commissioner describing it as a promising sign for the upcoming elections.
Also at the forefront of Nomination Day processes was the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator, Khadija Musa. Speaking to this publication, Musa saw the enthusiastic display from party supporters as a true expression of democracy.
“I think it’s fantastic that everyone has come out and expressed their wishes so publicly and in a peaceful manner,” said the UN official. She noted that such zeal for the nomination process has been a tradition in Guyana, and is unique to the country and its people. Musa said that it particularly stands out when compared to most countries where “they just send in the papers”.
“It is part of the promotion of democracy, so I only hope that it continues throughout the elections process,” said Musa. The UN representative also reaffirmed her organisation’s endorsement to free and fair elections in the country, as is evident in continued support of agencies like GECOM.
As the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Musa pointed out that the organisation has been a keen player in helping to move the electoral process forward. She explained that the UN continues to help in the democratic practice through direct funding to GECOM. The UN has helped GECOM with provisions in transportation and publication of materials for poll workers.
“The UN as a family and UNDP in particular has committed to making sure that GECOM has what they need and will to move the process forward.” related UN representative. Musa hopes that the electoral process will continue with the same spirit, to a fair and peaceful outcome.
Meanwhile, Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy, Bryan Hunt, expressed the same hopes for this year’s elections. He noted that he will be looking forward to a code of conduct for politicians to adhere to. This, he said, would create a framework for politicians to steer clear of inciting racial hate and other forms of divisive language.
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