November 21, 2024
Opposition leaders have been accused of orchestrating yet another strategy to delay the scheduled 2025 general and regional elections.
This claim was made by PPP General Secretary, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, during his weekly press conference, in response to recent statements by Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton.
Jagdeo addressed the opposition’s push for the use of biometric data in the electoral process, which he argued was an intentional tactic to delay the elections by up to eight months.
He pointed out that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is expected to inform President Irfaan Ali of its readiness to hold elections by August 2025, and such a delay could have significant consequences on the electoral timeline.
In addition, Dr. Jagdeo criticized Norton’s comments regarding the exclusion of foreign nationals, particularly Venezuelans and Bangladeshis, from voting in the upcoming elections.
Norton recently stated that his party would ensure polling agents object to the participation of foreigners in the electoral process.
Dr. Jagdeo reiterated that the ruling PPP/C government is open to improving the powers of presiding officers to ensure only eligible voters participate, but emphasized that this must align with the laws and constitution.
The General Secretary also expressed support for GECOM’s response, which labeled Norton’s statements as “mischievous” and urged political stakeholders to exercise caution when making public remarks, as they could negatively impact the democratic process.
This ongoing dispute continues to spark debate about election integrity and fairness, as the country approaches its next major electoral event.