The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) is mourning the sudden and unexpected loss of its Chairman, John Jarvis.

He passed away on Monday, January 15th, 2024, at the Sir Lester Bird Medical after a brief period of illness.

Jarvis was appointed as a member of the Commission on December 21st, 2015, and was later appointed as the Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission on April 6th, 2022, following the tenure of the previous Chairman, Nathaniel “Paddy” James.

Mr. Jarvis was a professional, meticulous, fair, and motivating individual who kept the interest and advancement of team members at ABEC along with the integrity and transparency of the work of the Commission at the forefront of his daily operations.

He was known for his strength and leadership as an electoral management professional and provided a catalyst for learning for the human resources in the organization, who often relied on his arduous expertise.

Mr. Eugene Francis, the Deputy Chairman of ABEC, expressed that Mr. Jarvis was more than just a colleague, he was also a friend and a mentor.

“We always had great conversations, and he was always willing to share information about the history and work of ABEC and always had ideas on how to improve the working conditions of our staff at ABEC,”, according to a statement on Wednesday

Ian S. Hughes, the Supervisor of Elections, expressed that the nation of Antigua and Barbuda has lost a stalwart who is revered internationally for his sterling contributions to the electoral management process.

The Commission expresses its deepest condolences to his wife, Mrs. Faustina Jarvis, his children, and his wider circle of family and friends for their loss. His passing is a great loss to the Commission, and he will be deeply missed.