Georgetown: The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has revealed its intent to engage young people as it unveils a comprehensive Civic and Voter Education campaign in the lead up to General and Regional Elections.
Deputy Chief Elections Officer of GECOM Vishnu Persaud said that the body has already instructed its field officers to have initial engagements and to organise further discussions with youth groups. He stated that it is important for new voters to understand their roles and responsibilities as well as the voting procedures.
As per standard operating procedure, GECOM has initiated its campaign with the announcement of a date for elections. Already, there are advertisements in the electronic and print media on the upcoming Claims and Objections period.
“We are having panel discussions and interactive sessions, which people can follow,” the recently appointed Deputy CEO informed.
According to him, the usual use of public announcement systems, banners and flyers will also be employed to ensure that voters are fully informed. According to Persaud, these activities will be heightened as May 11 draws nearer.
“Given the strategy that we have and the way in which it will be employed, I am confident that we will be reaching out to all categories of electors.”
GECOM said it will also be conducting a workshop for journalists covering elections.
In a statement, GECOM said in a deliberate strategy to promote comprehensive understanding about elections management procedures among media practitioners, the Commission will be conducting a one-day training exercise especially targeting journalists who would be responsible for covering election related issues, as well as the respective Editors from all media houses/agencies.
The primary objective of the training exercise is to improve understanding among media practitioners relative to pertinent electoral issues, as well as to promote accurate reporting.
The exercise is also aimed at enhancing GECOM’s media relations by establishing direct points of liaison in all of the media houses/agencies. The workshop will take place on Saturday, February 14, at St Joseph High School, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown from 08:30h-16:30h.
For further information please contact GECOM on telephone number 223-9653.
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