Guyana Completes Feasibility Study for Biometric Voter Registration

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has completed a comprehensive feasibility study examining the potential implementation of digital biometric voter registration, with estimated equipment costs of $20 million, according to Chief Election Officer Vishnu Persaud.

The study, conducted over six months in 2024, evaluated both technical requirements and practical challenges of transitioning from Guyana’s current paper-based system, which has been in place since independence in 1966. GECOM’s analysis identified several key benefits, including reduced registration times and improved accuracy in voter identification.

“The primary advantage would be the elimination of multiple registrations through immediate fingerprint verification,” Persaud said. “However, we must carefully consider the substantial investment required for equipment and training.”

The feasibility report highlights several significant implementation challenges, including the need for infrastructure to ensure reliable power and internet connectivity across Guyana’s varied geographic regions. Additionally, there is a pressing requirement for extensive training for registration staff in all 10 administrative regions to ensure a smooth rollout. Addressing data security and privacy protection measures is also critical, alongside launching public education and awareness campaigns to foster understanding and support for the project.

GECOM plans to present detailed findings to Parliament in early 2025, with potential implementation beginning in phases from 2026. The Commission estimates initial rollout would take 18-24 months to complete.

The proposed system would bring Guyana in line with regional standards for electoral modernization. Similar implementations in neighboring countries have shown reduction in voter fraud cases by up to 85 percent, according to the International Foundation for Electoral Systems.

Sources: Demerara Waves Online News, International Foundation for Electoral Systems

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November 6, 2024 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team

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