With the national recount and tabulation of ballots now completed, the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) looks forward to the completion of the tabulation and subsequent declaration of the results of the recount in short order. Unofficially, the country, and we daresay the world, is now aware of the results and the consequences of those results. We, at this time, as is the practice of democracies the world over, expect acceptance of the results and a peaceful transition of power. In the same vein, we expect all our political leaders to pledge their commitment to the country and its people as we move towards a new Government. At this time, we expect President David Granger to gracefully concede and to offer his and his Party’s congratulations to his successor.
At this time too, we are aware that the Coalition has committed not to accept the results. We find this most unfortunate and we sincerely hope that better sense will prevail as we all need to join hands for a better Guyana. The Coalition’s stance which comes against certain accusations has seen many Guyanese coming forward offering evidence that has directly contradicted those contentions. However, if the Coalition remains adamant we urge the examination of an Elections Petition which is the only mechanism lawfully provided to address such matters. We do not believe other shenanigans, legal or otherwise, would be helpful at this point in time.
We express our appreciation to the many persons from the Elections Commission, the political parties, the observers, especially the CARICOM team, who took part in the recount. Their many man hours, certainly at great personal sacrifice, has brought us to the point where seemingly light is appearing at the end of the tunnel. The role of the media, who remained encamped, outside the recount venue in less than ideal circumstances is also recognised. The patience of the Guyanese people is also noted as they remained calm in what was a distressing period in our nation’s history.
We need not procrastinate any further but an end to what has been an excruciatingly long process. What is now required is for the healing process to begin in earnest as we put behind what was a blistering campaign season and an even more difficult period in the days after Elections Day. It is now time for us all as Guyanese to work together and face up collectively to the many challenges that face us as a nation and people. Let us remember we are “one people” of “one nation” working towards “one destiny”. We urge all to “Put Guyana First”
