The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Wednesday hosted a delegation from The Carter Center for discussions on the Center’s final report on Guyana’s 2025 General and Regional Elections, while also examining areas of shared interest in promoting social cohesion and democratic stability.
The meeting was held at the ERC’s boardroom and brought together officials from both organisations as part of ongoing engagements on the 2025 electoral process and the strengthening of national unity.
The Carter Center delegation included Jason Calder, Country Director of the Center’s International Election Observation Mission, and Brett Lacy, Associate Director of the Center’s Democracy Programme.
The ERC team was led by Chairman Shaikh Moeenul Hack and included Deputy Chairman Charles Ogle, Commissioners Ras Khafra, Chandrowtie Sarran, Neaz Subhan and Norris Witter, along with acting Chief Executive Officer Oma Sukhu.
According to the ERC, Chairman Hack thanked The Carter Center for its longstanding role in supporting and strengthening democracy in Guyana since 1992, while underscoring the importance of the organization’s continued engagement.
During the discussions, the Chairman also briefed the delegation on the Commission’s work before, during and after the 2025 elections, including its outreach to communities and deployment of what it described as the largest group of local election-day observers.
The ERC said it also highlighted its broader peacebuilding and education efforts, including Harmony Clubs in schools and diversity, equity and inclusion training programmes across public and private sector bodies.
The Carter Center delegation indicated that it has been meeting with national stakeholders to discuss the findings and recommendations contained in its final report and to explore how the organization could support their advancement.
According to the ERC, the delegation commended the peaceful conduct of the 2025 elections, acknowledged the Commission’s role in supporting its observation mission, and shared a copy of its election observation handbook with the Commission.
Both sides also recognised what they described as the close alignment of their mandates in promoting inclusivity and peaceful engagement.
While noting that concerns and challenges were raised during the meeting, the ERC and The Carter Center reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and fostering national unity.
The Commission said both parties also welcomed the prospect of continued cooperation in the years ahead.
