Police ranks undergo election offences and preparedness training

A two-day training session on Election Offences and Preparedness was held on Thursday and Friday for ranks of the Regional Police Division #7.

The initiative, aimed at strengthening law enforcement’s role in upholding electoral integrity, was conducted by Attorney-at-Law and Superintendent of Police, Delon Fraser at the Zara Computer Centre in Bartica.

The session began with opening remarks from Assistant Commissioner Dion Moore, Regional Commander for Division #7. He highlighted the importance of professionalism, impartiality, and vigilance in safeguarding democratic processes.

The training sought to equip officers with a deeper understanding of the legal responsibilities and expectations during election periods.

Superintendent Fraser offered detailed instruction on the key legal statutes governing elections in Guyana, particularly:
* The Representation of the People Act (Chapter 1:03)
* The National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act (Chapter 1:04)
Participants were trained on the identification, prevention, and management of common electoral offences, including:
* Fraudulent Device or Contrivance (Section 135) – Using dishonest means to alter the outcome of an election.
* Misconduct at Polling Stations (Section 136) – Disruptive or disorderly behaviour at polling locations.
* Treating (Section 129) – Offering food, drink, or gifts to sway voters.
* Secrecy Violations (Section 134) – Breaching voter confidentiality or secrecy of the ballot.
* Multiple Voting (Section 132) – Casting more than one vote in the same election.
* Bribery (Section 128) – Offering money or other incentives to influence voting behaviour.
* Illegal Practices (Section 133) – Actions such as ballot tampering, voter obstruction, or making false declarations.
* Personation (Section 131) – Voting under another person’s identity.
* Undue Influence (Section 130) – Using threats or coercion to affect a voter’s choice.

Superintendent Fraser stressed the essential role that police officers play in promoting a free, fair, and transparent electoral process, noting that their actions on the ground directly influence public confidence in democratic institutions.

The session also reviewed standard operating procedures for detecting, documenting, and responding to incidents of electoral malpractice.

A total of seventy-six ranks attended the training, marking a significant investment in preparedness ahead of any upcoming electoral events in the region.