Canadian High Commissioner urges Guyanese to demand electoral reforms

Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Sébastien Sigouin, has called on Guyanese citizens to speak out and push for reforms to ensure that future elections are free and fair, citing the just-released final report of the European Union Election Observer Mission for the 2025 elections.

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In a post on his Facebook page, High Commissioner Sigouin said the report, which included detailed recommendations, highlights that while improvements were made and election day was calm, “much work is needed to continue strengthening the electoral process.”

“Democracy belongs to the Guyanese people. So speak up, call on your elected representatives, on your National Assembly, on your Government to take action and make the changes needed so that your electoral process is truly free and fair. It’s your right and your responsibility,” he wrote.

The EU Election Observer Mission’s report noted the need for key electoral reforms, including a review of the current composition of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to guarantee inclusive and impartial functioning. The report highlighted that the 2025 elections were conducted in an atmosphere of limited confidence in the election administration, particularly among opposition parties, some media outlets, and civil society organizations.

According to the EU team, GECOM’s structure and decision-making processes remain heavily influenced by political divisions, hampering the commission’s ability to function cohesively. The report also recommended updating the voters’ list using the most recent population data and relevant state records, integrated with ongoing digitalization efforts.

Other recommendations included adopting clear and comprehensive campaign rules, regulating the conduct of public officials, ensuring state assets are not used for political advantage, and strengthening campaign finance oversight through an independent body. The EU team also called for revisions to outdated legal provisions, including expenditure ceilings and permissible expenses.

The EU Election Observer Mission’s 77-page report underscores a range of steps that would enhance transparency, fairness, and public confidence in Guyana’s electoral system, placing the responsibility on both the government and the people to act.