The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) at the time of preparing this statement recognized that 29 days has gone by since the March 02 National and Regional Elections, yet it appears to us that the nation is no closer to having credible results being declared. The actions of the ‘independent’ Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) represents an indelible, dark stain on our electoral body which is not only expected, but mandated as well, to discharge its responsibilities in an impartial and objective manner.
The Commission’s aura of neutrality has been shattered by what we consider as most reprehensible actions and acts by certain elements who, in effect, have served to severely tatter the name of the organisation. In so doing, they have tainted the reputation of the many committed, fair and hardworking men and women of the Commission. The incredulous acts by certain forces in the electoral body, who are seemingly aided and abetted by certain personalities, has been confirmed by several reports and statements emanating from local and international observers, the ABCE ambassadors, several political parties and individuals who were present. Those testimonies, as it were, have been buttressed by video footage of what actually transpired and which will now live in infamy.
The electoral results, of course, have been stymied by the maneuvers in the Judiciary to ostensibly thwart a national recount of votes under the supervision of a team appointed by CARICOM. While the FITUG upholds a citizen’s right to seek judicial redress, we, at the same time, hold that in this matter, it appears, there is a witting intent to frustrate a process that was agreed to by all the players. Inexplicably the court action appears in the name of a candidate of the Coalition, which itself, through several officials, has advocated and expressed its support for the vote recount. Several rationales to explain-away the court actions by Coalition officials have been advanced but they hardly hold water. We, like many Guyanese, hold the view that they are concerted attempts to thwart the will of our people.
We have recognized too that even the Chairperson of GECOM, Justice (retired) Claudette Singh, in her affidavit to the Court, has confirmed that the Commission is empowered, lawfully, to conduct a recount. Moreover, she has informed the Court that a decision has been made to proceed with that recount but is held up owing to the ongoing machinations. It behooves us, notwithstanding the clarity and all-round support, that the recount which will go a far way to dissipate the dark clouds that hover over our nation has essentially been put into abeyance at this point in time. It is our view given the public expressions of support, that the legal gymnastics be abandoned and a credible recount, under conditions that bring comfort and promote fairness, proceed without any further delay.
The FITUG contends that any Government formed without a recount and on the basis of the heavily criticized results cannot hold itself out as legitimate. We believe irrespective of the Court’s decision, any worthwhile politician and decent political party that wish to hold executive authority ought to ensure that this is done on the basis of credible and acceptable results. Legal cover, in this case, is not sufficient and will not bring about any comfort whatsoever. Already, we have been warned about the consequences of such Government foisted on the people. We believe, that we ought to take such warnings seriously especially given our position as a small, open economy whose productive sectors have been severely damaged in recent years.
At this time, we have seen too a resurgent calls for power sharing. On the surface, this appears to be a most worthwhile suggestion but we hasten to remind that all that glitters is not gold. Power sharing is something that, we believe, needs to be fleshed out, carefully analysed and considered from all angles if it is to be pursued. While we recognize the quarters the power sharing calls have emanated from, we, at the same time, contend that such calls can only be answered by a legitimate Administration that is supported by the people through their votes. It is only in this context that we consider such a discussion could meaningfully commence.
The Federation sees our democracy as one of our core rights and its disregard could well foretell undermining of other inalienable and cherished rights of our people. It is in this regard that the FITUG stands on the side of the democratic, peace-loving, law-abiding and right-thinking forces at this time. We have seen the travesty that unfolded when we traversed this road in the past and we need not repeat that sad period of our history. As still a young nation with many aspirations yet to realize, we need to chart a future with a democratically-installed Government. We contend that any Government, coming to office, by any other means cannot be deemed as legitimate and cannot have the respect of our Federation. We will, within every lawful mean, continue, with other forces, in our expressions to ensure that democracy is upheld and a legitimate Government is installed.
