The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), whose affiliates speak on behalf of thousands of workers across the length and breadth of the country, remains very much concerned, at this time, that the results of the March 02, 2020 General and Regional Elections seems to be no closer to finality. While we recognize and appreciate that we should not sacrifice accuracy for expediency, at the same time, we contend that we ought to be further along the process at this point in time.
The FITUG was also most dismayed to learn that the Returning Officer of Region #4 suddenly brought a halt to the tabulation of the region’s Statements of Polls during the evening hours of March 03, 2020. The halt on account of tiredness, on the surface, appears to be a reasonable position. But, similarly, we cannot disregard too that there was apparently a seeming commitment to complete the task at hand without any breaks. Therefore, the suddenness has brought to the fore several concerns.
It has now been more than 36 hours since the polls have closed and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has, so far, only managed to officially report, in our view, the results for a handful of polling stations. Several rumours abound for the current state-of-play and the ticking minutes and hours seem to give such contentions more credence in our view. The situation has created an uneasy situation in our country and has significantly slowed the wheels of production. This is not helpful for our nation’s workers who have needs and obligations to meet but are unable to work given the situation.
The FITUG, at this time, urge that every possible step be taken to ensure the timely declaration of credible and accurate results. We see the continued delay as unhelpful as it breeds even more anxiety and tension in the society. We recognize too certain political operatives making certain statements about the results. The Federation wishes to echo sentiments expressed that such statements should be avoided and official declarations come from the electoral body.
