Dear Editor,
Former United States President Jimmy Carter passed away at the age of 100. He will be remembered by Guyanese for the role he played in the restoration of democratic rule on October 5, 1992 after twenty-eight years of PNC authoritarian rule. He was personally present in Guyana during the October 5, 1992 elections which many felt may have forestalled yet another episode of rigged elections by the Desmond Hoyte regime.
Carter was awarded Guyana’s highest national award, the Order of Excellence, by the PPP/C administration for his invaluable contribution to democratic reforms which ultimately paved the way for free and fair elections. Among those reforms were the counting of votes at the place of poll, a new voters’ list and a new formula for the appointment of the Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
Despite being a one-term President, Carter played an influential role in global politics and will be remembered for his part in brokering a peace deal between Israel and Egypt, famously referred to as the Camp David Accords which was signed in September 1978. He was the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for his advocacy role for world peace, human rights and the peaceful resolution of conflicts in the world.
The Carter Centre which he founded continues to monitor elections in all parts of the world including elections in Guyana. An outstanding international statesman has fallen. May his soul rest in peace!
Sincerely,
Hydar Ally
