Smooth Start to Voting, Short Lines by Design, Says ABEC PRO Elisa Graham

Voting across Antigua and Barbuda is off to a smooth and incident-free start, with the process running efficiently as electors head to the polls, according to Elisa Graham.

Speaking on the morning programme on Pointe TV, Graham said the early hours of voting had proceeded without disruption and expressed confidence that the process would remain orderly throughout the day.

She also addressed concerns about what some may perceive as low turnout due to short lines at polling stations, explaining that the system was deliberately designed to avoid congestion.

“The morning has been without any incidents… and we hope it continues like that up until the close of polls,” she said, noting that the absence of long queues should not be interpreted as low participation.

Graham explained that the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission increased the number of polling stations to 190 — more than in the 2023 general election — specifically to allow voters to move in and out quickly and reduce waiting times.

Beyond the smooth start, she reminded voters that provisions are still in place for those who have not yet collected replacement voter identification cards. Individuals who applied for replacements can do so at registration units, with access extended to facilitate the process up to the close of polls.

Graham urged all eligible Antiguans and Barbudans to take part in the democratic process, encouraging them to come out and cast their ballots.

“We want to encourage all eligible Antiguans and Barbudans to go out and exercise their franchise,” she said.

She also highlighted a social media initiative launched by the Commission, inviting voters to participate in a “Show us your voting finger” campaign by tagging ABEC and sharing their voting experience online.

The ABEC PRO further noted the presence of observers monitoring the election, including representatives from the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States (OAS), and CARICOM, who were invited to oversee the process.

In her remarks, Graham also reiterated key election day rules, reminding voters not to wear political paraphernalia or branded clothing when attending polling stations.

She concluded by calling for continued peaceful participation, urging citizens to help ensure a seamless and credible election day.