The Commonwealth Observer team is in place and is calling for peaceful elections while looking forward to a high voter turn out next Monday.

The Head of the Commonwealth Mission to Guyana, Ms. Kate Wilkinson told journalists at a Thursday afternoon press briefing that while the Commonwealth does not offer advice to political parties, it is urging them to take a “constructive approach to campaigning” and be “responsible” in their acceptance of the official results when they are provided.

Already, the group has been meeting with some of the contesting political parties, the private sector, the media and other stakeholders. It has already been briefed on the current political climate in the country and some of the statements that have been made on the campaign trail.

Ms. Wilkinson said the concerns will taken on board when the group compiles its final report.

Asked about recommendations made by the Commonwealth when it observed the last elections in Guyana not being implemented, the Mission head explained that the Commonwealth could only make recommendations but is not in a position to enforce those recommendations.

Head of the Caribbean/Pacific Section – Political Division for the Commonwealth, Albert Mariner said it will be up to the stakeholders here in Guyana to ensure recommendations and implemented.

“The Commonwealth can only make recommendations for improvement. The responsibility in terms of implementation is with GECOM, Government, Parliament, and with all the stakeholders who have a role to play in strengthening Guyana’s democracy”, he said.

The group intends to travel across Guyana to observe the elections and all of its processes including voting, the movement of ballot boxes and the post elections environment.

The work of the group is expected to be completed by the 17th May when it will unveil its final report on the 2015 Guyana elections.

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