A six-member observer team from Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has reported that Antigua and Barbuda’s April 30, 2026 general elections were conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner, with voters able to freely exercise their democratic rights.
The CARICOM Election Observation Mission, led by Chief of Mission Maxine McClean, was deployed at the invitation of the government through CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett. The team comprised electoral experts from Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago.
Observers arrived between April 23 and April 27 and held consultations with a wide cross-section of society, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne, opposition leader Jamale Pringle, media representatives, police officials and election authorities. These engagements were aimed at assessing preparedness and the general electoral climate.
On Election Day, the mission deployed teams across 16 of the country’s 17 constituencies, visiting 182 of 185 polling stations. Observers reported that polling stations opened on time at 6:00 a.m., with election materials delivered promptly and staff present and prepared.
The mission noted a visible police presence at polling stations, describing officers as professional in their interactions. Polling agents from political parties were present, and official notices were clearly displayed. Voting was described as calm and orderly, with early morning and late evening periods seeing the highest turnout.
At polling stations, voter lists were prominently posted and information clerks were available to assist electors. Staff were observed to be courteous and adequately trained, providing impartial guidance and facilitating elderly and disabled voters.
Observers also monitored the close of polls at 6:00 p.m., noting that while most stations had no queues, those still in line were allowed to vote in accordance with regulations. The counting process was carried out transparently, with ballot boxes sealed, transported, and opened in the presence of polling agents and observers.
In its overall assessment, the mission said the electoral process was conducted in line with established procedures and guidelines. It commended polling staff for their professionalism and praised the role of law enforcement in maintaining order.
The CEOM also congratulated the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission, political parties, and their supporters for contributing to a peaceful election environment.
The statement is an interim assessment, with a final report expected in the coming weeks. CARICOM reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Antigua and Barbuda’s democratic development and continued progress.