Employers are being reminded that workers must be given time off to vote during the upcoming St. Philip North by-election, according to a notice issued by the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission.

The commission said the requirement is outlined in Section 34(1) of the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, 2001, which guarantees voters time to participate in the electoral process on polling day.

Under the law, every employer must allow eligible voters a period of four consecutive hours to cast their ballots during the by-election.

The legislation also states that employers are not permitted to deduct wages or other remuneration from employees who take time off to vote. In addition, employers cannot impose any penalty on workers for their absence during the period granted for voting.

The notice was issued as part of preparations for the 2026 St. Philip North by-election, with the commission urging employers to comply with the law and ensure workers are able to exercise their democratic right.

Officials say the provision is intended to remove workplace barriers that might prevent voters from participating in the electoral process.