Chairman of the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC), Leslie Haynes, has denied claims that the Register of Electors for the General Elections on Wednesday, January 19, was published late.

Speaking this afternoon during a press conference to update the public on preparations for the poll, Mr. Haynes stated that the publication of the list was within the 19-day period stipulated by legislation.

“If you review the legislation, you would find that the 19-day period for updating the Register ended on midnight on Saturday, January 15. The printing of the Register was then completed yesterday, Sunday, January 16, 2022,” Mr. Haynes stated.

He added: “The Register for Elections has been printed and distributed to all political parties and Independent candidates, and the election officers are collecting the last of their equipment and supplies as we speak. In conclusion, I can say to you all, that the EBC is ready for General Elections on January 19, 2022.”

The EBC Chairman also shared that the total number of persons registered to vote on Wednesday’s General Elections was 266,330.

It was noted that some 3,700 persons will be working at polling stations around the island, and voting would take place between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Mr. Haynes explained that due to the inclusion of COVID-19 protocols at polling stations, it was anticipated that the voting process might take a bit longer than usual.

“It starts at 6:00 a.m. and it ends at 6:00 p.m., and as usual nothing has changed. Once you are in the line before six o’clock, your vote will be counted regardless of whether you get to the ballot box at let’s say seven o’clock. Once you are in the line, your vote will be counted. You will not be allowed to join the line after 6:00 p.m.,” Mr. Haynes emphasised.

Assistant Supervisor of Elections, Rosalind Springer, pointed out that notices were issued to persons notifying them of their polling station, including those who changed their address.

She advised persons who have not received a notice from the EBC to visit the Department’s website and submit their identification number, minus the dash, in the chatbot, to find out their polling station. 

The officials also noted that all COVID-19 protocols, including the wearing of masks; hand sanitising and social distancing, would be in effect at polling stations on Election Day.

sheena.forde-craigg@barbados.gov.bb

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