After more than an hour of deliberations, the Guyana Elections Commission has decided to increase the number of polling places in a number of areas following a request by the People’s Progressive Party. At least twelve new polling places could be added to the existing amount.

The PPP made the request at a two-hour meeting earlier today at the GECOM Command Centre, citing concerns about GECOM’s earlier decision to reduce the number of polling places at private residences.

Opposition nominated Commissioner Sase Gunraj told reporters this evening that the Chief Elections Officer has been instructed to increase the number of polling places along the East Coast of Demerara in Mon Repos and Foulis and at Chesney in Region Six.

It is unclear where exactly those polling places will be established. The Guyana Elections Commission has asked the Chief Elections Officer to look into the issue within a short timeframe.

Earlier today, PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo complained that the reduction of private residences as polling stations could result in some voters being forced to travel long distances just to cast their ballot.

He said whether that voter is a supporter of his or the governing party, he believes they should have the convenience of voting close to their homes.

He said it doesn’t matter whether polling places would be set up in tents or other places, but there was a need to increase those polling places.

The Elections Commission has approved over 2300 polling stations for the elections.

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