BUDGET 2025: $18.9 billion allocated to constitutional bodies, including GECOM

In his much-anticipated budget presentation on Friday, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh outlined a significant allocation of $18.9 billion for constitutional bodies in 2025.

This includes crucial institutions such as the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), the judiciary, and several commissions responsible for oversight and transparency in the country’s governance.

Though 2025 is an election year, there was no specific mention of funding directly designated for the upcoming general and regional elections. However, Dr. Singh stressed the importance of ensuring that Guyana’s constitutional bodies are adequately resourced to fulfill their mandates effectively.

As Guyana heads toward the 2025 General and Regional Elections, President Dr. Irfaan Ali had confirmed in December 2024 that sufficient funds would be allocated to GECOM to ensure the commission’s readiness.

For context, in 2024, GECOM received an allocation of $3.5 billion.

Further details on 2025’s budgeted amount for the commission is set to be revealed during upcoming debates and consideration of estimates in the coming days. It is widely expected that GECOM’s budget will see an increase to accommodate the logistical and operational demands of conducting a national election.