Another walkout stalls GECOM’s work in preparation for September elections

The statutory meeting of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Tuesday came to an abrupt end following a walkout by opposition-nominated Commissioner Desmond Trotman, stalling key election preparations.

Trotman’s exit, just minutes after the meeting commenced, effectively halted discussions on several agenda items crucial to the advancement of the Commission’s work in the lead-up to the  September 01, 2025, General and Regional Elections.

Speaking with News Room, government-nominated Commissioner Sase Gunraj explained that GECOM’s weekly statutory meetings, traditionally held on Tuesdays, require a quorum comprising the Chairperson and two Commissioners from each side — two from the government and two from the opposition.

Gunraj confirmed that the government-nominated Commissioners Clement Rohee, Manoj Narayan, and himself were present for the meeting, alongside opposition-nominated Commissioners Desmond Trotman and Vincent Alexander.

“An agenda had been set, covering several critical matters related to the upcoming elections,” Gunraj stated.

According to him, shortly after the meeting commenced, Alexander inquired about unresolved issues not placed on the agenda. The Chairperson reportedly explained their exclusion. However, Trotman objected to proceeding with any other matters in their absence and exited the meeting.

“As a consequence, the meeting lost its quorum,” Gunraj said. “Not only were we unable to address the agenda items, but we also could not discuss off-agenda matters critical to the holding of elections.”

Following the disruption, the Chairperson issued notice for another meeting to be held on Thursday. Gunraj noted that, as provided for in the Constitution, the quorum for that meeting would now be the Chairperson and any three Commissioners.

“The Constitution contemplates the participation of a majority of Commissioners, likely to encourage thorough deliberation. But this trend of walkouts and delays has been ongoing — even before the announcement of the election date,” Gunraj lamented.

He described Tuesday’s aborted meeting as yet another instance of what he termed “a deliberate strategy of delay, obfuscation, and filibustering.”

“In essence, there was no meaningful discussion on any single issue. This has long characterised our engagements and gives the strong impression that there is no real desire by some Commissioners to ensure successful elections,” he added.

While he did not have the agenda for the aborted meeting in front of him, Gunraj stressed that there are “key decisions” the Commission must make urgently, including finalising timelines for the application of symbols and nomination deadlines.

“This kind of walkout at such a critical juncture appears clearly designed to frustrate the process,” Gunraj said.

Asked whether these actions could jeopardise the timeline for the elections, he responded cautiously.

“I don’t want to cast doubt or be a naysayer. As a realist, I’ve looked at the timeline and was perhaps the first to say it is practical and achievable. But when mischief-makers act up, we always have to cater for these eventualities.”

So far, Gunraj said, a review of the Commission’s work plan does not reveal any major impact caused by the walkouts.

Continuous registration has already ended, and the Claims and Objections period is set to begin later this month. Nomination Day has been announced, and training for staff is ongoing, as GECOM continues its preparations for the September 2025 polls.