Dear Editor,
There is a term in the political literature which refers to a situation in which people are better off not exercising their right to vote rather than making incorrect political choices. This is referred to as ‘functional apathy.’ Society, it is felt, is better off for those who, for whatever reasons, are unwilling to vote, if in their considered view none of the contesting parties provide them with a good enough reason to vote for them. Functional apathy is high in some of the major western countries including the United States and Britain.
Voting is not mandatory in Guyana as in some countries such as Australia where a person could be fined if he or she is registered to vote but fail to turn up on voting day without any valid reason.
The above notwithstanding, I am of the strong opinion that every eligible voter should exercise that fundamental right to vote. No individual should be afraid to vote, or to participate in the electoral processes in favour of one party or the other. That is an inalienable right that is enshrined in our Constitution. Moreover this is the essence of our democracy, the right to select a government of one’s choice in free, fair and credible elections.
It is in the above context that I have some difficulty with the decision taken by GECOM to have a supplemental list of individuals who for whatever reason or reasons have opted not to collect their Identification Cards. Since an ID cards is not a requirement to vote, such a move is at best baffling and could very well cast a shadow of doubt on the electoral outcome.
Yours faithfully,
Hydar Ally
