Gunraj: Police bodycams at polls are standard practice, no threat to ballot secrecy

Commissioner on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Sase Gunraj says there is no issue with the use of police body cameras at polling places.

In a statement today, the APNU called on the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to instruct is ranks not to use the cameras in polling places.

“We have received several reports across the country from voters who feel uncomfortable and concerned that their privacy is being invaded. We wish to advise the Police that they should only activate their cameras during incidents or unusual activities. Otherwise, their cameras should be switched off,” APNU said.

Asked to comment on this, Gunraj – speaking in his personal capacity – explained that the use of the body cameras is “standard police protocol and I don’t believe it breaches the secrecy of the polling station”.

He reminded that GECOM’s move to prohibit the use of cellphones and cameras was specifically for the the voting compartment and the intention is to protect the secrecy of the ballot.

Nevertheless, Gunraj said the processes across the country so far are progressing well. He noted that most polling stations were opened on time and there were “very few hiccups” and “teething errors”.

The GECOM Commissioner is encouraging all eligible voters to ensure they participate in their civic duty today.

“People have lost their lives to ensure we have a right to vote today, in that vein, my simple request would be for people to come out and exercise their civic duty, vote and go back home, it’s a public holiday,” he urged.