The Commonwealth Observer Group has commenced its work in Antigua and Barbuda in preparation for the 2026 General Elections, following its deployment by Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon. Shirley Botchwey.
The Group is led by Hon. Dr. Pelonomi Venson, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Botswana, and comprises three other eminent experts drawn from across the Commonwealth. The members bring a breadth of experience spanning election administration, politics, civil society, and the media.
The Secretary-General constituted the Group following a formal invitation from the Government of Antigua and Barbuda. In deploying the team, Botchwey expressed confidence in the Group's ability to deliver a rigorous assessment.
"I am consistently encouraged by the readiness of distinguished individuals across the Commonwealth to contribute to the strengthening of democratic processes across our member states at short notice," she said. "I am confident that the Chairperson, Hon. Dr. Pelonomi Venson, and the members of this Group will bring their experience to bear in delivering an independent, credible and balanced assessment of the electoral process in Antigua and Barbuda."
Group members are now in the country and will remain for the duration of their mandate. Their work will cover the pre-election environment, polling day activities, and the post-election period, assessed against relevant national law, Commonwealth values, and international standards.
In her arrival statement, Chairperson Hon. Dr. Venson described the assignment as an honour and underscored the significance of the moment for Antiguan democracy.
"These elections provide an important opportunity to further strengthen democratic institutions and build public confidence in the electoral process," she said. "It is therefore important that all stakeholders uphold the principles of inclusive, transparent and participatory democracy, where every vote carries equal weight."
The Group will be supported by a team from the Commonwealth Secretariat, led by Lindiwe Maleleka, Political Adviser in the Electoral Support Section.
During their stay, observers will meet with a wide range of stakeholders, including election officials, political representatives, civil society organisations, security agencies, the diplomatic corps, and other observer missions. Observers will also be deployed across both islands to monitor polling, counting, and results management processes.
An interim statement of preliminary findings will be issued shortly after election day, with a comprehensive final report to follow.
