The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has reported a sharp surge in replacement voter ID card applications ahead of the April 30 general election, with cumulative figures nearing 30,000 across the country.

According to the Commission’s latest official report up to April 16, a total of 29,868 applications have been processed for April alone, reflecting heightened voter activity as Election Day approaches.

The data shows strong engagement across multiple constituencies, with some areas nearing full completion of their replacement ID processing targets.

St. Peter leads with 88% completion, followed by St. Philip North at 75%, Barbuda at 76%, and All Saints West at 66%, indicating particularly high responsiveness among voters in those districts.

ABEC’s figures further break down weekly application trends, showing a sustained increase in activity throughout April, with thousands of applications recorded in successive reporting periods.

The surge comes amid intensified preparations for the snap general election, with electoral officials urging all eligible voters to ensure they are properly registered and equipped with valid identification.

The replacement voter ID initiative forms a critical part of ABEC’s effort to maintain the integrity and efficiency of the electoral process, particularly as the country moves into the final weeks of campaigning.

With just days remaining before the polls, the data suggests a growing urgency among voters to regularize their documentation — a sign that turnout could be significant when ballots are cast on April 30.