President Dr. Irfaan Ali Addresses GDF Annual Officers’ Conference Amid Election Preparations

As Guyana gears up for its general and regional elections later this year, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has called upon the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to maintain vigilance to prevent any disruptions to the democratic process. During the opening of the GDF’s Annual Officers’ Conference at Camp Ayanganna, the Commander-in-Chief emphasized the military’s constitutional obligation to assist civilian law enforcement in ensuring peace and order.

President Ali stated, “Elections are a fundamental pillar of our democracy, and we must ensure that the process unfolds in an environment free from intimidation, violence, or destruction.” While he does not foresee unrest, he underscored the importance of preparedness to address any potential threats to internal stability.

He clarified that this readiness does not imply partisan involvement but rather fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities. “We are asking for the members of the Joint Services to take a professional and national stand. Every member of the force has a right to vote according to the dictates of their conscience, and as long as I’m Commander-in-Chief, the right will be respected,” Dr. Ali asserted.

The President highlighted that the military’s professionalism is paramount, stating, “Our duty is to the nation, to its security and the preservation of law and order, not to any political interest.” He reiterated that Guyana’s democracy relies on free, fair, and peaceful elections, and that no internal or external forces should undermine the will of the people.

Reflecting on the tumultuous events following the March 2, 2020 elections, President Ali recalled the five-month standstill due to a recount initiated amidst allegations of ballot manipulation by senior officials of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The recount, supported by local and international observers, confirmed a victory for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), which had been initially contested by the then ruling coalition, APNU+AFC.

In the aftermath of the 2020 elections, the PPP/C returned to power in August, leading to criminal charges against key election officials involved in the alleged fraud. GECOM subsequently terminated the contracts of those charged, a decision met with public approval.

As the nation approaches another election cycle, GECOM has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the electoral process and maintaining its integrity. The commission emphasized its dedication to ensuring a free, fair, transparent, and credible electoral system that fosters public confidence.

“GECOM takes this opportunity to categorically state that it will ensure the safeguards and integrity of its processes in the conduct of elections that will guarantee public confidence in a system that is free, fair, transparent, and credible,” the commission affirmed.