GUYANA-THAG calls for peace ahead of September 1 polls

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THAG representatives call for peace ahead of Guyana elections
The Transitional Harmony Advisory Group urges calm before Guyana’s upcoming elections

GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – The Tourism & Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) on Friday called on all political parties, stakeholder bodies, as well as the general public to ensure that the September 1 general and regional elections are free and fair.

In a statement, the THAG said that with the elections just over three weeks away, it is essential to “uphold a code of tolerance, maturity, peace, and stability, particularly during this critical period leading up to, during, and immediately after the elections”.

It said that elections often come with heightened emotions and tensions, adding “in such times, it is more important than ever that we act with restraint and unity.

“THAG encourages everyone to de-escalate potential conflicts in our homes, workplaces, communities, and across the nation. Let us work together to ensure that Guyana remains a safe and welcoming destination—for ourselves and all visitors, whether they are here for business or leisure. ”

The THAG stated that the country is looking ahead, with plans for 2026 continuing, and that Guyana will celebrate 60 years of independence, with excitement already building. “Some hotels are fully booked, and tours are being planned. We have much to explore, unite, and mix in 2026, but this will only be possible if we protect the peace and stability that allow our people and our tourism industry to thrive.

“Let peace be our priority. Let unity be our strength. Let 2026 be our celebration,” the THAG added.

On Tuesday, representatives of four of the seven political parties contesting the elections, namely, the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), the Alliance For Change (AFC), the Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP), and We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), signed the Code of Conduct..

The main opposition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), were absent from the signing ceremony.

The APNU later said it does not believe that the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is the correct agency to oversee a Code of Conduct for the elections.

“Let us be abundantly clear that while we believe in the value of a Code of Conduct on peaceful, respectful, and lawful campaigning, we have no confidence in the impartiality and independence of the Ethnic Relations Commission,” the APNU said in a statement.

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