Latest update September 29th, 2026 10:28 AM
Roman Catholic Bishop urges peace during elections
Brothers and Sisters all,
You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a people set apart to sing the praises of God who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1Pet 2:9)
As our beloved nation approaches the National Elections on September 1, 2025, I write to you with a shepherd’s heart, guided by faith, reason, and love for our shared homeland. Our country stands at a crucial crossroads—one where past wounds, if unhealed, could fuel division and unrest. Yet we are also at a moment of great possibility—a time to choose peace rooted in justice and democracy grounded in truth.
Over the last month, a group of concerned citizens, myself included, by way of a series of webinars, conversations titled “Just Electoral Peace,” brought together regional experts from Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago—nations with ethnic and colonial histories not unlike our own. We learned that electoral peace is not merely the absence of violence, but the presence of reconciliation, fair systems, mutual respect and shared values. In both countries, respect for electoral rules, independent institutions, and civil society engagement helped sustain peace amid ethnic and political differences. Guyana, too, can walk this path.
But peace must be cultivated. It requires trust—in our systems, in one another, and most importantly, in the values of justice, equality, and truth. We must speak honestly about our history and commit to healing. Let us support institutions that are transparent and fair and let us encourage civil society—including the Church—to educate, advocate, and bridge our differences.
Our youth are especially important. Many are disillusioned, yet they carry the hope of a new political culture free from ethnic division. Let us listen to them, empower them, and walk beside them.
Therefore, I urge everyone, every citizen of goodwill, to engage peacefully and faithfully in these elections—not as partisan followers, but as bearers of light and life that emanates from faith. Vote with conscience. Reject division. Support justice. And pray without ceasing for our nation.
Let us be peacemakers and nation builders.
With every blessing,
+ Francis Alleyne OSB
Bishop of Georgetown
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