GECOM Clarifies Rules on Joint Party Lists in Elections

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has clarified its stance regarding the allocation of parliamentary seats when multiple political parties combine their lists for electoral participation. This decision follows previous disputes involving the parties ANUG, LJP, and TNM during the 2020 elections.

During a statutory meeting held on July 10, 2025, GECOM engaged in thorough discussions on the implications of list combinations, known as “joinder of lists,” as well as the process for filling vacancies in the National Assembly. The outcome was grounded in the legal framework established by Section 22(1) of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA), which permits the merging of candidate lists from different political parties for seat allocation.

Under this regulation, the total votes received by the combined lists will dictate the number of seats won in the National Assembly. It was also affirmed that if a parliamentary seat should become vacant, the replacement will adhere to specified legislative procedures unless Parliament is fully dissolved.

This decision marks a significant development in Guyana’s electoral process, providing clarity on joint candidacy and ensuring a structured approach to representation in parliament.

Source: newsroom.gy

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