The Guyana Elections Commission is under fresh scrutiny after several statements of poll (SOPs) were uploaded to its website in blank form, containing only signatures but no polling data.
The omissions sparked public concern and confusion over what transpired at certain polling stations on Election Day. By the following day, the SOPs were replaced with updated versions showing complete polling data.
When contacted, GECOM’s Public Relations Officer, Yolanda Ward, confirmed that the discrepancies were flagged and subsequently corrected. Still, questions remain as to why presiding officers did not ensure proper checks and balances before submission.
Meanwhile, political parties continue to push for recounts. The APNU has requested recounts in Districts 4 and 7, while the WIN Party sought recounts in Districts 4 and 8. GECOM granted some requests, but WIN’s recount bid for District 8 was denied. Information on District 7’s recount was still unavailable up to news time.
Adding to the controversy, video footage circulated Thursday night by WIN candidates and supporters showed ballot boxes without the required security features when containers were opened for the recount.
The recount process, which commenced on September 4th, remains ongoing.
