INTER RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION CALLS FOR PEACE DURING & AFTER ELECTIONS

 

The upcoming elections promise to be tense with the stakes being high for all involved.  Understandably, there is talk about the likelihood of negative behaviour being displayed following the outcome.  We all know from past experience that while severe damage and significant loss of both life and property could wreak havoc to our country, the truth is that no one benefits from such disorder. 

 

It is with this in mind that the (IRO) calls upon the leaders of all the contesting political parties, especially the three major ones, to assure their supporters and followers that they will abide by the results officially declared by GECOM.

 

Our collective religious voices are joined to ask that all the contesting parties immediately begin announcing that they will publicly accede to the results of the elections and that they will neither protest, march, dispute, or in any way give signals that the elections were not free and fair.  There is legal recourse if there is dissatisfaction with the process.  It would be magnanimous if a concession speech is offered—this would avert any upheaval and usher in a peaceful post-election transition of governance.

 

We are calling on all Guyanese not to allow themselves to be manipulated, to talk, act and work hard at promoting peace and harmony among members and supporters of all political parties, and encourage and demonstrate love and goodwill to their fellow Guyanese as we strive to develop our beloved land.

 

We raise the call for a National Day of Prayer on Sunday 10 May 2015 in all Places of Worship.