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– Western envoys The United States of America, Canada and the United Kingdom, via their envoys, are urging Guyanese to show maturity in debating important issues during the upcoming elections.US Charge d’Affaires,Mike Modano Jersey, Bryan HuntAccording to a joint statement yesterday, the announcement by President Donald Ramotar on Tuesday that national and regional elections will be held on May 11, 2015,Artem Anisimov Jersey, must be welcomed. “Elections are a critical first-step towards the return of a fully functioning Parliament,” the statement said.It was noted that great strides were made by Guyana during the 2011 General and Regional Elections.“The Organization of American States (OAS) Electoral Mission Final Report, which referenced the Mission with observers from 14 countries, applauded significant efforts made by the Guyanese Electoral Commission (GECOM) to execute an overall inclusive and clean electoral process.”The envoys acknowledged that the report mentioned the “high level of training and dedication exhibited by GECOM staff in the polling centres.”“These views were also endorsed by the Commonwealth observation team. The report also noted areas of improvement to make subsequent elections more efficient and fair. We hope Guyana considers these recommendations, including: improving mechanisms that guarantee more equitable access to media and political financing,Johnny Gaudreau Team North America Jersey, adherence to timely and standardized procedures for the electoral process, improving communications with all stakeholders,Phillip Danault Jersey, in particular GECOM, and strengthening the promotion of gender-balanced participation throughout the electoral process.”Canadian High Commissioner, Dr. Nicole GilesThe statement also expressed hope that the electoral process will allow the Guyanese people to debate the important issues that are facing the country.“We are committed to working with GECOM,David Rundblad Jersey, all political parties,Bobby Orr Jersey, and civil society to support free,Paul Stastny Jersey, fair and peaceful elections.”It has not been the first time that the western countries have publicly expressed opinions about elections, among other things. There were statements before on Local Government Elections which have not been held for over 20 years.As a matter of fact,Pavol Demitra Jersey, British High Commissioner,Troy Brouwer Jersey, Andrew Ayre, who is set to return home shortly, weighed in on the prorogation of Parliament in November by the President. He urged for the situation to be corrected and warned that Parliament remains a critical component in oversight of developmental assistance to Guyana.However, Government had accused Ayre of meddling.Outgoing British High Commissioner, Andrew Ayre |
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