GDF Ranks Cast Ballots in Early Voting for General Elections
By Travis Chase | HGP Nightly News.
Over 3,100 ranks of the Guyana Defense Force (GDF) were expected to cast their ballots on Friday as members of the Disciplined Services voted ahead of the September 1, 2025, General and Regional Elections.
At the forefront was Chief of Defense Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, who was the first in line to vote. Speaking with reporters, Brigadier Khan emphasized that all soldiers were exercising their democratic right freely and without political pressure.
“There’s no particular agenda. Every officer and rank has a right to exercise their vote as they see fit. There is no coercion, there is no influence,” he stated.
Khan further explained that ranks currently overseas on courses or duties will be facilitated to vote on September 1, either through Guyana’s consulates or upon their return home.
Reflecting on recent tragedies within the Force, Khan paid tribute to Brigadier (ret’d) Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahood, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Charles, Lieutenant Colonel Sha Welcome, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan—all of whom died in a helicopter crash. He said their service and sacrifice remain a solemn reminder to the ranks casting their votes.
According to GECOM, all polling stations for the Disciplined Services closed at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, marking the completion of this phase of the elections process.
