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GECOM delivered free and fair elections
from Kaieteur News
by GxMedia
DEAREDITOR,
In the June 12, 2023, Local Government Election, I ran as an Independent Candidate for Constituency
9 - Zeeburg-De Willem, in Region3,ontheWestCoast Demerara.
I was personally at the pollingstationfrom6AMto 11PM.AlthoughIthrewmy hat in the ring for the first time but did not win the Constituency, I graciously congratulated the winner, Mr Jonas and have nothing but praise for the GECOM Staff and the attending PoliceOfficers.
Their conduct was courteous and professional, ensuring a smooth voting experience.
Firstly,sincethiswasmy first foray in LGE, it will be remiss of me not to mention that Mr Kapildeo Chanderban, the Returning Officer (RO) explained, in granulardetails,thenuances and axioms therein, in a courteous and professional manner Though wearing many hats concurrently, and I continuously peppering himwithquestions,notonce did Mr Chanderban exhibit acrimonyorrancour
He displayed intestinal and cerebral fortitude throughout. I am compelled to believe that Mr C h a n d e r b a n i s a n exceptionalGECOMasset.
His GECOM staff mirrored his demeanour and composure.
Secondly, true to their promise, the Ethnic Relations Commission’s (ERC) presence was manifested by the entry of ERC’s Commissioner, Ms. Chandrowtie Sarran, to observe whether the LGE Code of Ethics, previously signed, was being adhered to.
Thirdly, the presence of another entity to certify that folks with disabilities were not disenfranchised and that accommodation for their presence at the polls were provided-including GECOM’s transportation to other polling stations - was as refreshing as it was most welcome.
Fourthly, and just as importantwasthesignificant presence of the Guyana
Police Force (GPF) as well as the Community Policing, to guarantee that the voting process was hassle free Thoughthedaywaslongand transitioned into the night ( 1 0 - 11 P M ) , t h e i r unflinching commitment to stand guard and to corroborate the efficacy and accuracy of the ballot counting is a testament of their professional responsibilities and net neutralrole.
In totality, my opinion, though microcosmic, is that the GECOM’s matrix and attending logistics and personnel delivered a free andfairLGE.
Ecomiumallaround!
Sincerely, Mr.SubrianEsq.
