The residents of St. Peter will head to the polls today, Tuesday, January 14, to choose a new candidate who will represent their interests in the House of Representatives.

This by-election has been prompted by the unfortunate passing of the previous representative, Asot Michael.

The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has officially nominated Rawdon Turner to be their candidate in this electoral contest.

Meanwhile, the opposition party, the United Progressive Party (UPP), has selected George Wehner to stand as their candidate. The contest between these two individuals is expected to be closely watched by the community and political analysts alike.

Ian Hughes, the Supervisor of Elections, revealed that approximately 2,100 individuals have applied for replacement Voter ID cards, allowing them to exercise their right to vote.

This number comes from a total of 2,800 individuals whose Voter ID cards needed to be replaced.

Hughes emphasized that even voters with expired Voter ID cards have the opportunity to participate in this election by visiting the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) office to apply for temporary voting cards.

According to Hughes, there are 4,762 eligible voters registered to cast their ballots in this by-election.

The polling stations will open at 6:00 AM and remain operational until 6:00 PM, providing ample time for voters to arrive and make their voices heard.

The election will be facilitated at eleven designated polling stations, with key locations including Parham Primary School, Pares Primary School, and the Precision Centre.

Rev. Stephen Samuel has been appointed as the Returning Officer for the constituency and will oversee the election process with the help of a dedicated team of 40 officials, ensuring that the voting proceeds smoothly and efficiently.

Hughes updated that many individuals took advantage of extended hours on Monday night to pick up their Voter ID cards at the Precision Centre, ensuring they are prepared for today’s voting.

Following the close of polls, the counting of votes will begin at Parham Primary School approximately one hour after voting concludes, a process that will be closely monitored to ensure accuracy and transparency.