Georgetown- The PNCR is concerned that sufficient effort is not being made by the PPP/C Administration to facilitate citizens obtaining basic source documents so that they can get their names on the Voter’s List. The PNCR had previously recommended that a special Unit be established at the General Registrar’s Office to fast track the procedures and better facilitate persons in need of assistance to obtain their source documents. Despite the Registrar’s denial that these difficulties are continually being experienced by citizens, the problem remains and has also been acknowledged by the Elections Commission. PNCR’s General Secretary confirmed that he had sent a list containing the names of several persons experiencing such problems to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Registrar’s Office to support the validity of the PNCR’s assertions.
A visiting UNDP Mission was in Guyana to undertake a pre-election assessment of the Technical assistance needs of GECOM in its preparations for the National and Regional Elections which are constitutionally due later this year. In this context, the mission expressed interest in Guyana’s current situation and political climate from the perspective of various stakeholders as this country prepares for General Elections. Major concerns raised by the PNCR included, the remaining obstacles facing citizens in being registered, particularly obtaining source documents; and, the radio monopoly and political control of the State media by the PPP as they refuse to establish a National Broadcasting Authority.
