Guyana Elections Commission Rules Out Biometric Voting System for 2025 Elections

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has determined that implementing a biometric system for the upcoming 2025 general and regional elections is not feasible, according to an announcement by GECOM Chairman, retired Justice Claudette Singh. The decision comes after months of debate and a comprehensive feasibility study that estimated equipment costs at approximately $20 million.

While the electronic capture of fingerprints for registration and voting is permitted under current law, Justice Singh asserted that using a biometric system as the exclusive means of voter identification would be unconstitutional. She explained that such a requirement would impose additional burdens on voters beyond constitutional requirements. This stance addresses concerns raised by various stakeholders since GECOM first began exploring biometric options in 2023.

The decision comes as Guyana prepares for elections expected in October or November 2025. Justice Singh cited time constraints and numerous preparatory requirements as key factors in the determination, stating, “With less than a year to go before these Elections, and given the number of tasks that would need to be done… I am convinced that this is not feasible within the time presently available.” This announcement follows earlier calls from the Opposition People’s National Congress for GECOM to expedite the implementation of biometric voter authentication.

Implementation of a biometric system would require multiple preliminary steps, including stakeholder consultations, equipment procurement, personnel training, public education initiatives, and addressing legislative requirements regarding fingerprint security. The legal framework for such systems stems from Section 9 (1A) of the National Registration Act, which authorizes GECOM to establish procedures for electronic data processing.

While biometric identification cannot be mandatory, Justice Singh indicated that GECOM could potentially introduce it as a supplementary identification tool, though this would require additional legislation. She noted that the Commission has the authority to transition from manual to digital fingerprint capture under current law, opening the possibility for a gradual implementation approach in future electoral cycles.

Separately, Prime Minister Mark Phillips addressed the status of Guyana’s 2023 Data Protection Act, stating that the government is establishing the organizational structure and infrastructure needed for the Act’s oversight body. The Prime Minister indicated the Act would be operationalized “very soon.” The legislation is expected to provide crucial privacy protections for any future biometric data collection initiatives.

Sources: Demerara Waves

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January 20, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team