–urges political parties to act responsibly, accept results
As Guyanese head to the polls on Monday, September 1, to cast their ballots, President Dr Irfaan Ali has urged citizens to exercise this democratic while calling on political parties contesting the elections to act responsibly in the interest of the country and accept the results.
In an Address to the Nation, Dr Ali underscored the importance of this sacred right to vote in general and regional elections – something which he noted was earned through sacrifice and struggles.
“The right to freely and fairly elect a government of one’s choice is the very lifeblood of democracy. It is the solemn instrument through which we, the people, give direction to our nation’s course and determine the leadership that will, over the next five years, guide our destiny… To neglect this right is to dishonour their sacrifice. To surrender it carelessly is to imperil our sovereignty.”
“Therefore, I urge every Guyanese, wherever you reside, whomever you support, whatever your station in life, to go forth on Monday and cast your ballot. Do so with confidence, do so with dignity, and do so in a manner befitting a proud and free people. Vote free from fear. Vote free from intimidation. Vote with the assurance that your choice is yours alone, and that the right of your neighbour to make his or her choice is to be respected as zealously as your own,” the Head of State noted.
According to Dr Ali, elections should not divide the people of Guyana but serves as a mechanism to unify them under the banner of democratic sovereignty. To this end, he urged that the results of the upcoming elections, whatever they may be, is accepted by all stakeholders.
“When the ballots are counted and the results declared, let us not allow bitterness, enmity or disappointment to stain the process. Let us not allow divisiveness, hatred, or suspicion to corrode the bonds of fraternity that bind us as one nation. Instead, let peace and good order characterise these elections, as they must characterise the life of our Republic. And when the results are known, and the nation turns its face towards the future, we must be prepared to set aside narrow partisan differences and join hands in the service of the common good,” he added.
The Guyanese Leader went onto to add that the conduct of these elections must set the tone for a spirit of collaboration, a willingness to compromise, a dedication to national development, and a renewed commitment to the unity and harmony of the country’s people.
As Commander-in-Chief, Dr Ali said the law enforcement agencies have already given the assurance that they stand vigilant, ready to safeguard the peace and to preserve order.
“They have pledged to respond firmly and condignly to any threat of disruption, and I have every confidence in their capacity to secure the stability of our land. Yet, I submit that the greater responsibility lies not with them, but with us, all of us. Peace will prevail not because it is enforced, but because it is embraced. I therefore appeal to every citizen, and particularly to our political leaders and activists, to act responsibly in word and deed. Let us avoid inflammatory rhetoric, let us respect the rules of the electoral process, let us temper our passions and allow good sense and decency to guide our actions.”
Reminding that the eyes of the world are upon Guyana at this period, Ali implored that the country set an example of a people who can disagree without discord, contest without contempt, and choose without chaos.
“I urge that through our actions we ensure that these elections are peaceful and orderly; that our democracy once more prevails with honour; and that our Motherland emerge stronger and more united. May God bless our people, safeguard our democracy, and guide our beloved Guyana,” he posted.
Discover more from INews Guyana
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
