Supervisor of Elections Ian S. Hughes to Lead CARICOM Election Observation Mission to Barbados
Supervisor of Elections Ian S. Hughes has been appointed to lead a three-member Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Election Observation Mission to Barbados, ahead of the country’s General Elections scheduled for Thursday, 11 February 2026.
Hughes will serve as Chief of Mission and will be joined by Andrew Smith, Regional Manager at the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (EOJ), and Josephine Tamai, Chief Election Officer of Belize.
The CARICOM delegation is expected to be in Barbados from Thursday, 5 February to Friday, 13 February 2026, during which time it will observe and assess key aspects of the electoral process in accordance with the Mission’s established Terms of Reference.
In his role as Chief of Mission, Hughes will operate as an independent contractor, providing leadership and guidance to the observer team while ensuring that the Mission fulfills its mandate of impartiality, professionalism, and accuracy in reporting.
Hughes has expressed his appreciation to CARICOM for the trust and confidence placed in his expertise, noting that he looks forward to contributing meaningfully to the observation exercise and to capturing the nuances and broader context of Barbados’ upcoming electoral process.
This story was first published by Antigua News on February 5, 2026: antigua.news/2026/02/05/supervisor-of-elections-ian-s-hughes-to-lead-caricom-election-observation-mission-to-barbados. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Hundreds Caught In Miles-Long Gas Lines As Dealers Protest Increased Margins
Motorists are scrambling for fuel as leading service stations shut their pumps for the second time in weeks, while WIOC’s Friars Hill station reportedly remains the only WIOC location still dispensing gasoline.
By Cory Wayland
Four-Country CARICOM Free Movement Scheme Reports 939 Processed as Antigua Maintains Separate Conditions for TCN Transfers
Antigua and Barbuda remains outside the four-country scheme, while proposing strict limits and safeguards for temporary transfers of third-country nationals from the US.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Elderly Man Found Dead Inside Ovals Home
Police are investigating after an elderly man was discovered unresponsive at his home in Ovals on Wednesday morning, with no indication of foul play at this stage.
By Cory Wayland
WATCH: Taxi Operators Call for Proper Policing as Minister Freeland Reviews Concerns in St. John’s
Taxi association representatives say vehicles occupying designated spaces and soliciting cruise passengers are affecting operations around Heritage Quay.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (2)
Juju Bee February 5, 2026, 10:26 AM
Informed citizen February 5, 2026, 11:42 PM