Ambassador Nicole D. Theriot delivered remarks at the launch of an Election Security Crisis Response Training in Georgetown, Guyana, on August 18, 2025. The event marked a collaboration between the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), supported by the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
The training is part of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, which aims to support Guyana's efforts to counter narcotics, disrupt organized crime, and strengthen regional security cooperation.
During her address, Ambassador Theriot welcomed law enforcement professionals from Miami-Dade to Georgetown and highlighted their decades of experience in law enforcement and training. She noted that they would be working with Commissioner Clifton Hicken and 58 GPF officers across all ranks to enhance crisis management and response capabilities.
"As Guyana prepares for national elections on September 1, citizens should have no impediments to exercising their right to vote, peacefully assemble, and express their views – values we as Americans share and strongly support," said Ambassador Theriot. "Ensuring everyone can do so safely and peacefully is of the utmost importance, but it isn’t always easy in tense environments like elections."
She emphasized the role of law enforcement in preparing for unexpected events during elections, responding quickly to crises, coordinating efforts effectively, and communicating clearly with both colleagues and the public.
"From GPF senior leadership to frontline officers – everyone has a role and a responsibility to represent the force and your community with pride and professionalism, and this U.S.-sponsored training will help you do exactly that," she added.
Ambassador Theriot reaffirmed ongoing U.S. support for Guyana's institutional strengthening efforts: "The United States will continue to support Guyana’s efforts to strengthen institutions, bolster security, enhance accountability, & promote stability. And all of these are meant to ensure citizen security, to preserve Guyana’s continued growth & development, and to guarantee its sovereignty and territorial integrity."
She concluded by expressing hope for peaceful elections: "We look forward to peaceful, free, fair, and credible elections in two weeks, thanks in no small part to the hard work & dedication of all of you in this room today."