The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) was simply appalled by the action or inaction of the Chief Elections Officer, Mr Keith Lowenfield in the last twenty-four hours. The CEO’s reported refusal to hand over his final report to pave the way for the declaration of the 2020 Elections results shatters his few remaining strands of integrity and impartiality. It appears to us, at least, that the some elements in the Secretariat are very much compromised and will leave no stone unturned to thwart the will of the Guyanese electorate. This, for us, is a most unfortunate development and represents a naked and blatant attack on our democracy and institutions charged with upholding our democratic culture.
The actions of the CEO, who according to media reports, refused to present his report because of a note informing that Court proceedings were filed is grossly unacceptable and cannot be tolerated whatsoever. Undoubtedly his actions have tarnished the image of the Elections Commission and have gravely undermined the confidence of Guyanese in the electoral body. Certainly it does much harm to the character of the CEO himself who, prior to the ongoing elections imbroglio, was reportedly held in high esteem. It causes us to wonder what could cause the marked change in attitude and approach. It seems to us there is much more than the eye can see.
At this time, the far-too-long elections is facing further procrastination arising from Court actions filed in the Court of Appeal. The FITUG again reiterates its support for Guyanese seeking redress through the Judiciary. In as much as we hold such a position, we believe that judicial intervention should be pursued in a responsible manner and not with specious motives which seemed aimed at delaying the inevitable. We remind, that Guyanese have already grown frustrated and want to put the elections behind us. We are hopeful that the Courts can quickly address the matter and the process can finally be brought to an end.
