The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has released an update on the ongoing voter ID card replacement exercise, revealing both progress and challenges in the process.

As of August 30, Supervisor of Elections Ian Hughes reported that 4,209 individuals had participated in the replacement process. This figure, however, falls short of the initial expectations set by ABEC.

“We’re a little bit behind where I think we ought to be at this time,” Hughes told Observer. “I think we should have been in the 6,000 percentiles.”

ABEC is undertaking the substantial task of renewing 40,000 expired voter ID cards across the country. This effort is part of maintaining the integrity of the voter list, which currently includes just over 60,000 eligible voters. The process began on August 12.

Several factors have contributed to the lower-than-expected turnout:

1. Connectivity issues in some areas
2. Citizens waiting for all registration locations to be fully operational
3. A tendency among voters to procrastinate until significant electoral events are imminent

Despite these challenges, Hughes remains optimistic, noting that the numbers, while low, are steady.

• Current operating hours: 8:30 am to 6 pm
• Potential adjustment: Hours may be reduced to 8:30 am to 4:30 pm starting in November due to decreasing daylight

“I’m quite sure that if there is a by-election to be held before the end of the year, those persons in that constituency whose cards are expired will definitely present themselves in short order,” he said.

The Supervisor of Elections strongly cautioned against a “laid-back” approach to registration. He cited past experiences where last-minute rushes, particularly on election day, put significant strain on the registration system.

As the process continues, ABEC urges eligible voters to take advantage of the current extended hours. By avoiding delays and registering early, citizens can help ensure a smoother process and avoid potential frustrations as important electoral deadlines approach.

Hughes emphasized the importance of proactive participation: “That’s the important thing – that persons realise they can come in and conduct the process or apply for an expired card.”

As Antigua and Barbuda continues this crucial update to its voter rolls, the success of the process will depend largely on citizen engagement and the resolution of ongoing technical challenges.