Hughes: ABEC Gearing Up for St Philip’s North By-Election on March 16

Supervisor of Elections Ian S. Hughes says the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) is moving swiftly to ensure all systems are in place for the upcoming by-election in the St Philip’s North constituency scheduled for March 16.

Hughes explained that preparations are already underway following Thursday’s issuance of the Writ of Elections. The process now shifts toward Nomination Day, set for March 25, as the Commission readies polling stations, staffing arrangements, and voter services ahead of the vote.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former parliamentary representative Sir Robin Yearwood, who stepped down after achieving the historic milestone of 50 consecutive years of service to the constituency and the nation.

According to Hughes, ABEC anticipates a surge in residents seeking to renew or update their voter identification cards in order to participate in the election. To accommodate the expected demand, the Registration Office in Glanville will be reinforced with additional staff.

“As we did during the St Peter by-election last January, we will beef up staffing levels and extend working hours,” Hughes indicated. He noted that the office may also open on Saturdays and Sundays to ensure all eligible voters have an opportunity to regularise their documentation.

Currently, there are 1,972 eligible voters in St Philip’s North based on figures up to the end of October 2025. An additional eight voters from November and December will be added to the roll. Persons registered in January will also qualify to participate in the electoral exercise.

For comparison, 1,876 individuals were eligible to vote in the 2023 General Elections, reflecting a steady increase in the constituency’s voter base.

With just under 2,000 voters expected to head to the polls, ABEC says it remains focused on delivering a smooth, transparent, and efficient electoral process for the people of St Philip’s North.