By INEWS
See below for a statement from the Ethnic Relations Commission:
ERC CAUTIONS POLITICAL LEADERS TO PROMOTE PEACEFUL CONDUCT AHEAD OF 2025 GENERAL AND REGIONAL ELECTIONS
The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is calling on all political leaders contesting the 2025 General and Regional Elections to act responsibly and ensure that their conduct promotes national harmony and good relations across Guyana鈥檚 multi-ethnic society.
The Commission is concerned by recent incidents reported in the media that have increased tensions among supporters of various political parties. In light of this, the ERC reminds all political leaders of their duty to set a tone of respect, restraint, and unity, before, during, and after the elections.
The ERC urges political leaders to:
鈼 Denounce and refrain from all forms of violence, incitement, and intimidation, including threats or harassment at rallies, meetings, or any public engagement
鈼 Consistently urge their supporters against acts of provocation, intimidation, or hostility toward others
鈼 Avoid language that incites division or violence, especially along ethnic or political lines.
The Commission firmly opposes and rejects any form of violence or intimidation throughout the elections period. Specifically, the ERC urges against threats, harassment, or disruptions at political activities or in any public spaceand urges against language intended to incite violence or hostility toward candidates, agents, or supporters of any group.
The ERC reiterates that elections are a democratic right and must be conducted in an atmosphere of peace and mutual respect. Political leaders are urged to lead by example and help ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful electoral process for all Guyanese.
The ERC intends to have a Code of Conduct signing following Nomination Day, whereby all political parties contesting the elections sign to uphold these and other values foremost in the Code of Conduct during the period of General and Regional Elections 2025. Notably, all parties contesting the 2020 elections signed the ERC Code of Conduct aimed towards maintaining electoral peace.