Surge in Voter ID Renewals as Election Momentum Builds

A sharp increase in voter ID card renewals is being reported as the country moves closer to general elections, with hundreds of people rushing to update expired documents in just two days.

The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) says 929 individuals applied to replace expired voter ID cards on Monday and Tuesday—the first two working days following Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s announcement that elections will be held within 90 days.

The latest figures reflect a significant jump in activity. As of Tuesday, March 24, a total of 1,450 persons had applied for replacements during the month—nearly triple the 508 recorded in February and more than three times the 355 applications submitted in January.

Overall, just over 20,600 voters have renewed their expired identification cards to date.

ABEC noted that three constituencies—St. Peter, St. Philip North and Barbuda—have already surpassed the 70 percent mark in terms of eligible voters replacing their cards.

The Commission acknowledged that uptake had been slow since the renewal process was introduced in August last year, but said the recent surge signals a shift as election preparations intensify.

General elections are expected in the first half of May, and political mobilization is already underway. The ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) has launched a campaign encouraging supporters to renew their cards, emphasizing the importance of being properly registered ahead of polling day.

ABEC has also reiterated its readiness for the upcoming elections, stating it remains in a constant state of preparedness. Returning officers from the 2023 general elections are expected to be rehired, along with polling day staff, although refresher training will be required.