UPP Criticizes ABEC’s Handling of Voter ID Card Replacement Drive Amid Technical Issues

The United Progressive Party (UPP) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission’s (ABEC) management of the ongoing Expired Voter Identification Card replacement drive. The initiative, which began on August 12 across all 17 constituencies, has been marred by technical difficulties affecting multiple registration units.

On August 15, ABEC reported that 13 out of 17 registration units were offline due to system issues. While 16 units were restored by midday, Barbuda’s unit continued to face connectivity problems. This prompted a sharp rebuke from UPP’s Public Relations Officer, Damani Tabor, who deemed ABEC’s explanation of the situation inadequate.

Tabor called for a detailed account of the issues and assurances against future occurrences. He suggested implementing greater system redundancy and improving overall technological infrastructure, stating, “We need to use technology properly in this country to serve the people.”

UPP’s Political Leader, Jamale Pringle, went further, accusing ABEC of “making a mockery of itself and the voting public.” The party maintains its “deep dissatisfaction with the implementation of this important process” just days into the program.

ABEC’s PRO, Elisa Graham, assured the public that efforts to resolve Barbuda’s connectivity issues are ongoing. A technical team’s visit to the island, initially scheduled for August 16, was postponed to August 18 due to aircraft issues.

Despite these setbacks, ABEC reported that over 700 people have successfully applied for Voter ID card replacements in the first week. As the situation develops, the UPP continues to push for improvements in the voter registration system’s reliability and efficiency, emphasizing the critical nature of this process in ensuring fair and accessible elections.