The Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has issued a firm directive calling for order, respect, and strict adherence to electoral rules as voters cast their ballots on Thursday. According to Antigua News Room, Arthur G.B. Thomas delivered the message ahead of polling day, describing the general election as a critical moment in the nation's democratic life.
"General elections will be held on April 30th, and your participation is both your right and your responsibility," Thomas said.
Central to his address was an unambiguous warning on voter identification. Thomas made clear that no elector will be permitted to vote without a valid voter identification card, and that no exceptions will be tolerated.
The Commission, he noted, had extended its operating hours, increased staffing levels, and deployed all available resources ahead of election day to facilitate voter ID replacements. Having made every effort to assist electors, Thomas placed the remaining responsibility firmly on voters themselves.
"The opportunity has been provided. The responsibility now rests with you," he said.
Thomas also called for discipline and mutual respect at polling stations throughout the country, urging citizens to treat political opponents, election officials, and security personnel with courtesy.
"Order and compliance and mutual respect are not optional; they are essential to the credibility of the outcome," he stated.
Political parties received a direct reminder as well. Thomas warned that all campaign paraphernalia must be removed from polling divisions, stressing that the voting environment must remain free from undue influence.
"The polling environment must remain neutral, orderly, and free from undue influence," he said.
As polls opened across Antigua and Barbuda, the ABEC chairman urged all citizens to honour the country's democratic traditions by participating peacefully and within the law.
"Participate responsibly. Peacefully and lawfully," Thomas urged.
The Commission has underscored that strict compliance with these rules is essential to maintaining public confidence in the electoral process as the nation votes to determine its next government.
