In a late-afternoon statement, the Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland joined in expressing its concern over the report submitted by the Chief Elections Officer to the Guyana Elections Commission.

The Commonwealth in its statement said the submission of the report by the CEO which does not reflect the recount figures would be contrary to the fundamental principles which are treasured by the Commonwealth family and are enshrined in our Commonwealth Charter.

The body of 54 countries said it wants responsible parties to consider the consequences to Guyana’s reputation as a democratic country if the approach by the CEO was allowed to stand.

In submitting his report, the Chief Elections Officer said he was being guided by the Court of Appeal decision on valid votes. His report appears to have only considered what he called the credible and valid votes that were cast.

The Commonwealth said Guyana is a valued member of the Commonwealth family and all stakeholders in Guyana should honour their constitutional duties by ensuring a fair and transparent political process.  

The Guyana Elections Commission has not met to discuss the report by the Chief Elections Officer. But the matter is heading to the Caribbean Court of Justice as the PPP seeks a dismissal of the ruling by the local Court of Appeal on its interpretation of the words “more votes than” to mean “more valid votes”.

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