Guyanese for Peace

 

Guyana First. Guyana Wins.

 

MAY 14, 2015. Noon.

 

BEYOND WINNING OR LOSING: TOWARDS A FUTURE OF PEACE FOR GUYANA

 

Guyana for Peace notes that the preliminary tally  of the National and Regional Election has been given. The calculations of the parliamentary seats are being done now. Given the very narrow difference between the total number of votes for each of the  two major camps, large numbers of people in the country may be fearful they could be disenfranchised unless a new approach to governance is adopted which explicitly provides for shared governance.

 

The close and passionate electoral race which we just saw, which exacerbated old hurts, prejudices and perceived differences, was in part facilitated by this electoral system which may not currently  adequate create space for such sharing.

We sincerely believe that our constitution as crafted, speaks explicitly to the intention of ensuring that Guyana was governed inclusively and in the best interest of all Guyanese.

 

Given the thousands of calls for peace and inclusion which arose over the course of these elections, it may well be time for decisive action, within the first 100 days of the new government, towards shared governance.

 

Maybe the moment has come for a national conversation which concretely describes the country we want after almost 50 years of Independence. We are calling on civil society to organize and be a part of this movement now.

 

Guyanese for Peace sincerely thanks civil society, business, religious groups, youth and women’s group as well as media and all individuals who supported and worked with us to deliver a peaceful election. Guyana has spoken with the vote. With dignity and in peace. We should be proud as a people. 

 

One People. One Nation. One Destiny.