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Emphasising the importance of the preservation of law, stability and democracy, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on November 4 met with Ambassador of the European Union to Guyana, H.E René Van Nes to discuss the 2025 General and Regional Elections, and potential collaboration in preparation for the electoral season as it relates to voter information and the fielding of observer missions.

Senior Vice President, Mrs. Kathy Smith; Secretary and Councillor, Mrs. Melisa McRae-George, and Councillor and Executive Member, Mr. Richard Rambarran met with the Ambassador, and Press and information officer of the EU Delegation to Guyana, Mr. Javin Singh.

The GCCI Officials noted that the Chamber has fielded observer missions for elections in Guyana since 1992. Reflecting on the prior election, Mr. Rambarran stated that Guyana cannot have a repeat of the 2020 General and Regional Elections where there was a protracted period for the delivery of the results as this poses a risk to investor confidence at this crucial juncture of the country’s development. He also stressed the important role that the media, diplomatic community and civil society play during this period.

Stating that “Elections work best in democratic societies where you have strong institutions,” Ambassador Van Nes disclosed that the EU will be fielding an observer mission in 2025 of close to 70 observers, including local support staff—with the members arriving about two months prior to polling day. Included in the EU’s plan of action is the launching of voter awareness initiatives, media training for both state and private media houses, and providing support to civil society organisations in their preparation.