EU observers say polls peaceful, fundamental freedoms respected but flag areas for reform

The September 1 General and Regional Elections were peaceful, and fundamental freedoms were largely respected, European Union (EU) observers said on Wednesday, but flagged several shortcomings.

The EU Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) said polling stations opened on time, voting was orderly, and staff—mostly women—managed the process efficiently. “Voters cast their votes in a calm and peaceful manner,” Chief Observer Robert Biedroń, a Member of the European Parliament, told reporters.

Tabulation of results is still underway. The observers said they expect transparency standards to be maintained through the final count.

The mission noted that while the Guyana Elections Commission administered the vote effectively, its decision-making “remains affected by political divisions,” which undermine public trust. They also cited shortcomings in transparency, accountability, and accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Campaigning was inclusive and competitive, but observers said incumbents enjoyed undue advantages that tilted the playing field. The media environment was highly politicised, with limited space for diverse perspectives, while online platforms were often hostile and manipulated by partisan actors.

The EU EOM deployed 50 observers across the country and will issue a final report with recommendations in the coming weeks.