Bribes for votes unlawful, says GECOM

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) on Monday warned that revealing how a person voted, influencing others to disclose their vote, or offering money or gifts for votes are unlawful.

GECOM issued the warning as Guyanese head to the polls on September 1 to elect a government of their choice.

GECOM in a release said such actions violate the Representation of the People Act and carry penalties of up to six months’ imprisonment and possible disqualification from future elections.

“It is an offence for any person, including the voter himself, to communicate at any time to any person any information about the political party for which any voter has voted on his behalf or as a proxy,” the Commission said in a statement.

GECOM also said it is illegal to influence a voter to display their ballot paper or to make known the party for whom they voted.

Additionally, offering or promising any form of inducement—including money, gifts or loans—in exchange for votes is punishable under the law.

GECOM urged all stakeholders to uphold the principles of free, fair and transparent elections and reminded the public of their civic duty as the vote nears.