Lindeners solidify calls for house to house registration
—Hold peaceful protest action
—Youths must get a chance to vote
—Confidence has been restored in the electorate
DPI, Guyana, Friday, June 21st, 2019
Scores of Lindeners on Friday joined hundreds of demonstrators across Guyana, in peaceful protest action, to affirm the notion that for credible elections to be held, house-to-house registration is a prerequisite.
Gathered in front of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Mackenzie Office, persons chanted, “Credible registration for credible elections,” holding placards before marching through the streets of Mackenzie.
The protest was organised by Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira, who in an impassioned speech, affirmed the government’s position, that house-to-house registration must be completed before elections are called. He reiterated, that contrary to the opinion of many, the APNU+AFC Government, is not afraid of early elections. However, Figueira underscored that to disenfranchise anyone, particularly youths, would undermine the electoral process.
“We want you to understand very clearly, that your Government, is not afraid of elections, we have never been afraid of an elections… now that we are in a position of good governance, the President has stated unequivocally, that there is a need for credible registration,” Figueira said to loud applause.
The young people who also participated stressed that they must be given a chance to vote at the polls. Doron Duggan, who has reached eligibility status, said his name is not on the list. “I came out because I want my voice to be heard, I think all youths should take it seriously and do the same.”
Another protestor, Dolores Gibbons said, “We cannot have elections without house-to-house registration. The voter’s list must be sanitized.”
The Lindeners plan to continue the protest until their voices are heard.
Peaceful action calling for house-to-house registration was also held in Georgetown and Fort Wellington Berbice today.
Images and story: Vanessa Braithwaite