ST. JOHN'S, Antigua — The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has moved to counter allegations of irregularities in the ongoing Voter Identification Card Replacement Programme, firmly denying that the process has been compromised while urging eligible voters to complete their renewals before General Elections on April 30.

The Commission issued a statement Thursday responding to claims aired in a recent media broadcast suggesting that some individuals may have obtained Voter ID Cards through procedures that fall outside legal requirements. ABEC described those statements as appearing to be based on unverified sources.

"The Commission firmly restates that the Card Replacement Programme is carried out strictly according to electoral laws and administrative guidelines," ABEC said. The process requires every voter to appear in person for renewal, with identification and verification measures in place throughout.

While the Commission said it currently has no verifiable evidence of systemic breaches or institutional failure, it acknowledged the seriousness of such allegations. ABEC warned that even isolated confirmed violations would constitute a serious breach of electoral law and administrative integrity.

The Commission called on all parties to act responsibly, stressing that unsubstantiated claims and speculation risk eroding public confidence in the electoral process. It urged a clear distinction between evidence-backed complaints and unverified rumour.

ABEC also sounded an urgent note on voter participation. Despite extending operational hours, increasing staffing, and deploying officers at full capacity, the Commission said participation levels in the card replacement process have declined. It stressed that timely compliance is essential for voters wishing to exercise their right to vote on April 30. Voters are directed to collect their cards from their respective Registration Units as instructed.

The Commission closed by reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, stating it will not be swayed by conjecture or politically motivated narratives, but will act decisively on any credible evidence that emerges.

"The integrity of Antigua and Barbuda's democracy depends on institutional diligence at ABEC and public responsibility," the Commission said.