President Irfaan Ali today charged the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to remain “vigilant” as Guyana heads into elections this year, while making it clear that “no force internal or external” will be allowed to disrupt the will of the people.

As he addressed the Guyana Defence Force’s Annual Officers’ Conference at Base Camp Ayanganna this morning, the President said the Defence Force stands ready to fulfill its Constitutional duty to support civilian law enforcement to maintain peace and order, while upholding democracy.

He said elections are a fundamental pillar of democracy and the Guyana Defence Force must ensure that the process unfolds in an environment free from intimidation, violence and disruption.

“While we do not anticipate unrest or anything that is contrary to the rule of law, you must remain vigilant against any attempt to unsettle internal order. The Defence Force will be on standby, prepared to act if necessary, to uphold stability and protect the democratic process,” President Ali said.

He said the will of the electorate must be guarded.

“Guyana’s democracy depends on free, fair and peaceful elections, and we will ensure that no force internal or external disrupt the will of the people,” the President said.

He said members of the Defence Force or Joint Services are not being asked to take a partisan stand but to remain professional in the execution of their mandate as the country heads to Election. 

Noting that every member of the Force has a right to vote according to the dictates of their conscience, President Ali said as long as he remains the Commander-in-Chief, that right will be respected.

“The professionalism of the military will be always upheld. Our duty is to the nation, to its security and the preservation of law and order, not to any political interest,” he said.

Elections in Guyana are constitutionally due later this year. The President is seeking re-election.

The 2020 elections were marred with allegations of electoral fraud. The results were declared five months after votes were cast following a recount cycle and numerous challenges in the Courts.

(Svetlana Marshall)

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