Two electoral experts from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) last week met with Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) chairman Dr Steve Surujbally to discuss ways in which they can render assistance to ensure the effective and efficient management of the upcoming elections.
According to a press release from GECOM, this meeting is a part of its strategic engagement with its International Development Partners in the lead up to the General and Regional Elections.
The discussions centred on the challenges GECOM may encounter in the successful delivery of polling in May. During the discussions, GECOM highlighted its current state of preparation and sought greater collaboration in the areas of provision of consultancies, advisors and experts especially in relation to civic and voter education.
In addition to that request by GECOM, other topics discussed were campaign access to media, results management, electoral disputes, party financing, gender, voter information and the role of international and national observer groups.
The two visiting experts were Lea Zoric, Election and Gender Governance and Peace building, Bureau for Policy and Programme Support and Richard Gee, Electoral/Political Affairs Officer, Electoral Assistance Division, Department of Political Affairs.
Both Zoric and Gee met with several electoral stakeholders inclusive of representatives of electoral authorities, the government, political parties and members of civil society.
