GECOM Condemns Disinformation Campaign and Unauthorized Filming by Presidential Candidate’s Sister
GEORGETOWN, Guyana – September 4, 2025 – The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has issued a stern condemnation of unauthorized filming and the subsequent spread of misleading information by Haddiyyah Mohamed, sister of the We Invest in Nationhood Party’s Presidential Candidate. The incident occurred during the ongoing recount of ballots in Sub-District 4 of District 4, raising serious concerns about the integrity and security of the electoral process.
Ms. Mohamed’s actions, which involved filming ballot boxes awaiting recount within the GECOM compound and posting the video on Facebook with unsubstantiated claims of tampering, have been deemed a blatant violation of established protocols and a deliberate attempt to undermine public trust in the election. GECOM has emphasized the strict rules of conduct in place for all individuals present during the recount, specifically prohibiting unauthorized filming of sensitive electoral materials. This prohibition is designed to maintain the sanctity of the recount environment and prevent the spread of misinformation.
The Commission underscored that the recount is being conducted with utmost transparency and adherence to legal frameworks. Representatives from all political parties, along with accredited observers, are present to monitor every step of the process, ensuring accountability and minimizing the potential for irregularities. GECOM has reiterated its commitment to a fair and credible recount, pledging to take all necessary measures to protect the integrity of the process and secure electoral materials.
GECOM’s statement strongly criticized Ms. Mohamed’s actions, labeling them “irresponsible and inflammatory,” and called upon her and all parties involved to cease such behavior immediately. The Commission further urged stakeholders to refrain from disseminating unverified information that could incite public unrest or cast unwarranted doubt on the legitimacy of the electoral process. The emphasis on responsible communication underscores the importance of maintaining public order and confidence in the democratic system.
The Commission has reassured the public that the recount is progressing smoothly, with minimal interruptions and the active participation of accredited Election Agents from all political parties. This statement serves to counter the narrative of electoral irregularities promoted by Ms. Mohamed’s video and emphasizes the orderly nature of the ongoing recount. GECOM’s proactive communication aims to reassure the public and maintain confidence in the electoral process.
GECOM has advised the public to rely on official statements from the Commission and accredited news sources for accurate information regarding the recount, cautioning against the spread of unverified claims circulating on social media. This advisory highlights the Commission’s commitment to transparency and its efforts to combat the spread of misinformation. The incident underscores the challenges faced by electoral bodies in maintaining the integrity of elections in the age of social media. The Commission’s firm response serves as a warning against attempts to disrupt or discredit the electoral process and underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles. GECOM’s statement reinforces its commitment to a fair and transparent election, highlighting the measures taken to maintain the integrity of the process in the face of misinformation campaigns. The incident involving Ms. Mohamed serves as a stark reminder of the potential for social media to be used to spread disinformation and undermine democratic processes. The Commission’s swift response and its call for responsible behavior from all stakeholders underscore the importance of safeguarding the integrity of elections. GECOM remains committed to ensuring a credible and transparent recount, and it will continue to take necessary action to protect the electoral process from any further attempts to disrupt or discredit it. The Commission urges the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and to rely on official sources for accurate updates on the recount. GECOM’s commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial in ensuring public trust and confidence in the electoral process.