Canadian High Commissioner calls on Guyanese to safeguard democracy following EU election report

Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Sèbastien Sigouin, has called on Guyanese citizens to actively engage in strengthening the country’s democracy following the release of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) report on the September 1, 2025 General and Regional Elections.

“Democracy belongs to the Guyanese People. So speak up, call on your elected representatives, on your National Assembly, on your Government to take action and make the changes needed so that your electoral process is truly free and fair. It’s your right and your responsibility,” the High Commissioner said in a Facebook post, noting Canada’s support for efforts to ensure smooth electoral processes.

The EU EOM, which concluded months of assessment, presented its final report on Tuesday at the Pegasus Suites and Corporate Centre in Georgetown. Chief Observer Robert Biedroń, a Member of the European Parliament, acknowledged that the elections were peaceful and well-run but stressed that “political polarisation and an uneven playing field reduced public confidence in the process. Our recommendations aim to contribute to reforms that can strengthen the processes and further enhance transparency, inclusiveness and accountability.”

The report outlined six priority reforms addressing gaps in voter registration, campaign finance, media coverage, and implementation of the Data Protection Act.

While it recognised inclusive candidate registration, participation of six political parties, and strong representation of women, it noted challenges including incumbency advantages, politicised structures within the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), limited equitable media access, barriers for persons with disabilities, and a lack of civil society observers.

The EU EOM concluded that, despite these issues and deep political polarisation, recent reforms such as real-time online statements of poll had improved transparency and traceability of results.

The mission’s recommendations are intended to guide future measures to ensure free, fair, and inclusive elections in Guyana.