The incumbent PPP/C party says it is generally satisfied at the conduct of the polls so far in spite of a few “isolated instances” of procedural breaches.
“We are generally satisfied with the activities that have taken place right across the country. But we are also disappointed in some of the isolated incidents and cases that have been brought to our attention by both our polling agents, our candidates and also others who have been monitoring the process,” PPP/C campaign spokesperson Robert Persaud said this afternoon at a press briefing at Freedom House.
According to Persaud, the party has received reports of certain Gecom functionaries—polling agents— that have been wearing party paraphernalia and about persons wearing with such material being allowed within the precincts of the polling station. He also complained about persons using loud speakers in the vicinity of polling stations advocating a particular political view. These incidents, Persaud said, occurred primarily in Georgetown. He also said that in some polling stations in Georgetown and along the East Bank Demerara only opposition polling agents were given folios to aid in the identification of registered voters who do not have identification cards. These incidents, Persaud said, have been documented and letters sent to both Gecom and the international observers. Gecom, he said, has indicated that they are looking into these matters.
Persaud stressed that generally the PPP/C is satisfied with the arrangements that have been put in place and the response from the electorate. He urged those who have not yet voted to ensure they do so before close of polls at 6 pm.
