The polls have just closed in Guyana’s hotly contested general elections, and some opinion polls have indicated a possible defeat for incumbent Donald Ramotar by a five-party coalition for national unity headed by retired General David Granger. Ramotar’s People's Progressive Party/Civic (PPP-C), has held power for more than two decades. Guyana’s political life has been divided along ethnic lines, with people of Indian descent supporting the PPP, while those of African heritage traditionally support the opposition parties. Early elections were called amid charges of corruption and race-based politics after Ramotar suspended Parliament to avoid a motion of no confidence. Officials say some 2,999 polling stations were open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm and election results are expected on Wednesday. Alison Kentish reports from the Caribbean for teleSUR.
