Voting across Antigua and Barbuda is off to a smooth and incident-free start, according to Antigua News Room, with the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) reporting orderly conditions at polling stations nationwide.
ABEC Public Relations Officer Elisa Graham made the remarks during an appearance on the morning programme on Pointe TV, expressing confidence that the process would remain trouble-free through the close of polls.
"The morning has been without any incidents… and we hope it continues like that up until the close of polls," Graham said.
Graham also moved to address public concern over what some observers interpreted as low voter turnout, citing short lines at polling stations. She clarified that the absence of queues was by design, not an indication of low participation. The Commission increased the number of polling stations to 190 — surpassing the total used during the 2023 general election — specifically to allow electors to vote quickly and reduce waiting times.
As reported by Antigua News Room, Graham also reminded voters that provisions remain in place for those who have not yet collected replacement voter identification cards. Individuals who applied for replacements may do so at registration units, with access extended up to the close of polls.
The ABEC PRO urged all eligible citizens to participate in the democratic process. "We want to encourage all eligible Antiguans and Barbudans to go out and exercise their franchise," she said.
Graham highlighted a social media initiative launched by the Commission, inviting voters to join a "Show us your voting finger" campaign by tagging ABEC and sharing their voting experience online.
She also confirmed the presence of international observers monitoring the election, including representatives from the Commonwealth, the Organization of American States (OAS), and CARICOM, all of whom were invited to oversee the process.
Graham concluded by reiterating key election day rules, reminding voters not to wear political paraphernalia or branded clothing when attending polling stations, and calling on citizens to help ensure a peaceful and credible election day.
