Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield today fired back at a report in the Stabroek News that claimed that his action to only use credible votes for his final report, thereby invalidating over 115,000 votes was an act of insubordination.

In a statement, Mr. Lowenfield said those persons who believe that position have failed to recognize the sections of the Constitution that dictate the functions of the Chief Election Officer.

He said while the Commission makes certain policy decisions and provides guidance to the Chief Election Officer for implementation by the Secretariat, he has to execute his duties as a Constitutional Officer, particularly in the conduct of Elections.

He said the contents of the Stabroek News article suggests that the Chief Election Officer must only act as the Commission instructs and flout the Constitutional requirements.

Mr. Lowenfield said at all times, he has acted in conformity with the laws and therefore his actions cannot be seen as any clear act of insubordination.  He said the Stabroek News article is misinformed.

Lownfield has come under a barrage of criticism locally, regionally and internationally over his decision to present his final report using what in his view are only valid votes.  He said his decision was guided by the recent ruling by the Court of Appeal. 

The Elections Commission has not acted on his report as the Appeal Court’s ruling is currently the subject of an appeal before the CCJ.

Related posts:

Lowenfield asked to submit report again; Failure would result in DCEO being tasked with the submission of final report GECOM Chair asks CEO to submit new election report using valid votes from Certificates of Recount APNU+AFC backs Final Election Report using only “valid votes” Lowenfield submits report showing APNU+AFC victory on valid vote count