Guyana: Vote recount begins May 6 /update 4

Event

An election recount has begun in Guyana on Wednesday, May 6, to settle the result as to who will be the next president of the country. The recount of 2339 ballot boxes is being held at the Arthur Chung Convention Center in Georgetown, overseen by the chair of the Election Commission, Judge Claudette Singh. Several groups are present to observe the recount, which is set to last 25 days. The two contenders are incumbent President David Granger and Bharrat Jagdeo, leader of the opposition group Progressive People's Party (PPP).

Protests remain possible in Georgetown during the recount and when the results are announced, despite movement restrictions currently in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Should protests take place, a heightened security presence is to be expected.

Context

Bharrat Jagdeo, a leader of the opposition People's Progressive Party (PPP) previously filed an injunction against the election results claiming that Elections Commission (EC) altered votes in favor of President Granger. PPP supporters have clashed with police, blocked roads, and burned tires when initial election results were released on election day, March 2. 

Advice

Individuals in Guyana are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and public demonstrations as a precaution, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.