The European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission (EOM) has deployed 20 short-term observers across the country to assist those already in the fields.
The deployment takes place just three days before Guyanese head to the polls in Monday’s General and Regional Elections. They will observe the election-day proceedings, including the opening of polling stations, voting, counting of ballots and the tabulation of results.
Speaking to reporters at the Pegasus Hotel, the EOM’s Chief Observer, Robert Biedron said the 20 short-term observers represent the crème de la crème of the EU’s short-term observers, and will monitor the elections closely in all 10 electoral districts. He said their observations will be vital for the mission’s comprehensive assessment of the election.
The short-term observers will complement the work of the 14 long-term observers, and the core team that are already on the ground.
“We are the well-oiled machinery which is here deployed to deliver the best assessment of the outcome of this elections and pre-election and post-election period for the Guyanese people,” Biedron said.
The EU Mission is observing all aspects of the electoral process, including the election administration, legal framework, conduct of the campaign, involvement of civil society, and media coverage, including on digital and social media platforms. Its primary intention is to assess compliance with Guyana’s electoral laws as well as regional and international commitments to democratic elections.
The Chief Observer said the intention is not to interfere with the electoral process but to observe. He emphasized that observers are following a strict code of conduct for international observers in line with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation endorsed by the United Nations.
“We will not interfere in the process, and I want to underline it very strongly. Our goal is to observe, not to intervene. I know it is very tempting for many of you especially journalists to ask us difficult questions that you want us to answer but we are still observing. We are not interfering on any stage of this election. But I can assure you that these observations, as always from the European Union will reach the highest standards,” Biedron said.
In total the EU team is fielding approximately 50 observers. According to the Chief Observer, the mission would present its report on its preliminary findings two days after the elections.
“Two days after elections, we will issue our report, which will be assessing on the first hand observation after the elections, and it will include as always from our side, the press conference,” he said.
The preliminary report would be followed by a final report, which would include recommendations for improving the electoral process, which will be published after the completion of the entire process.
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