The Caricom Election Observer Mission (CEOM), which monitored Guyana’s September 1 General and Regional Elections, has praised the process as peaceful, orderly, and free from major incidents. Presenting the mission’s preliminary findings on Tuesday, Chief of Mission Josephine Tamai commended the professionalism of election officials and the disciplined conduct of voters, while urging Guyanese to remain calm and patient as the official results are finalized.
Speaking at a press conference at the Caricom Secretariat, Tamai said:
“The CEOM is of the view that on Election Day, voters were able to exercise their franchise in a peaceful and orderly manner without significant incident. The team observed no signs of intimidation, harassment, or undue campaigning that influenced or obstructed the democratic process.”
She noted that polling staff carried out their duties professionally, with law enforcement officers maintaining order with “extreme professionalism” in their interactions with both voters and political stakeholders.
While voter turnout began slowly, polling officials ensured that all eligible voters were accommodated throughout the day. Tamai emphasized that, as the country awaits the official declaration of results, patience and unity are essential.
“The relevant authorities must be allowed the space to carry out their duties thoroughly and transparently. Now more than ever, Guyanese must stand together and put the country first. The integrity of your elections is essential to the future of Guyana,” she stressed.
The CEOM, comprising a 10-member delegation of electoral officials from eight Caricom Member States, was in Guyana from August 26 to September 3. On Election Day, the team observed operations at 324 polling stations across Regions Three, Four, Five, Six, and Ten, monitoring every stage of the process—from the opening of polls and casting of ballots to the close, counting, and tabulation of votes.
Tamai reported that polling staff diligently followed Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) procedures, including transparent post-vote counting conducted in the presence of party agents and observers. Results were verified, signed by party representatives, and posted at polling stations in accordance with the law.
She congratulated GECOM, the Chief Elections Officer, and polling staff, noting that despite earlier concerns of staff shortages, all polling stations visited were fully staffed by courteous and efficient workers—many of them serving for the first time. She also commended political parties, their agents, and supporters for the peaceful and respectful way they conducted themselves on Election Day.
Looking back at the pre-election period, Tamai observed that while campaigns largely focused on policy and national development issues, they also included “personal attacks and accusations,” reflective of Guyana’s evolving political landscape. Importantly, no major election-related violence was reported.
In preparing its assessment, the CEOM engaged with Government representatives, civil society, the media, all six political parties, and both local and international observer missions. The mission also outlined stakeholder concerns and recommendations, including calls for improvements to the voters’ list, the introduction of biometric verification, reforms to the composition of GECOM Commissioners, and new campaign finance legislation.
The CEOM’s final report, which will include detailed findings and recommendations, is expected to be submitted to the Caricom Secretary-General in the coming weeks. Tamai reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to supporting Guyana’s democratic development and expressed gratitude to all who supported its work.
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