As voters head to the polls on Thursday, Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, Arthur G.B. Thomas, has issued a firm reminder that strict rules governing identification, conduct, and neutrality must be observed to ensure a credible election.
In a message delivered ahead of polling day, Thomas described the election as a critical moment in the country’s democratic life and stressed that participation must be matched by responsibility.
“General elections will be held on April 30th, and your participation is both your right and your responsibility,” he said.
At the center of his warning was the requirement for valid voter identification, making clear that no exceptions will be allowed.
“Let me be clear. No elector can be permitted to vote without a valid voter identification card,” Thomas said.
The Commission, he noted, had extended hours, increased staffing, and deployed all available resources in the lead-up to election day to facilitate voter ID replacements, placing the responsibility squarely on electors to ensure they are eligible to vote.
“The opportunity has been provided. The responsibility now rests with you,” he said.
Thomas also issued a strong appeal for order and discipline at polling stations across the country, urging voters to respect the process, political opponents, election officials, and security personnel.
“Order and compliance and mutual respect are not optional; they are essential to the credibility of the outcome,” he stated.
He further reminded political parties of their obligation to remove campaign paraphernalia from polling divisions, warning that the voting environment must remain free of influence.
“The polling environment must remain neutral, orderly, and free from undue influence,” Thomas said.
As polling gets underway across Antigua and Barbuda, the ABEC chairman called on all citizens to uphold the country’s democratic traditions by participating peacefully and lawfully.
“Participate responsibly. Peacefully and lawfully,” he urged.
The Commission has emphasized that adherence to these rules will be key to maintaining confidence in the electoral process as the nation votes to determine its next government.