Georgetown: Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter Tuesday evening urged Guyana Election Commission (GECOM) to release the results and called on political leaders to act responsibly.
“I call on GECOM to urgently publicize all of the results that it has received and reviewed in Georgetown. Political leaders should act responsibly and allow GECOM to continue its work,” Carter said.
The former US President also made it clear that there are recourses for aggrieved parties.
“The law provides for recounts, and the submission of election petitions following the declaration of results by GECOM,” a statement from The Carter Center said.
He urged for maturity.
“All sides should avoid taking unnecessary actions that could contribute to a climate of fear or threaten peace. I urge the Guyanese people to remain patient and to reflect the dignity and integrity of what took place on Election Day. The voters have spoken and the results will be available soon.”
President Carter had led a team of observer from the center but left suddenly on Sunday after feeling unwell. His team was on the ground observing the voting process and counting on Monday.
The official announcement has been delayed after the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic on Tuesday evening requested a partial recount of a number of regions.
A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition has reportedly taken a commanding lead of vote count.
A delegation from the coalition yesterday requested GECOM to stop the partial counting as there is no basis.
The center is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization, which has observed several elections in Guyana. This particular election was the 100th one for the body.
It was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide.
GECOM has come under flak for the seeming sloth in the release of the results.
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