EBC probes reports of electioneering violations in St James North

The Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) has confirmed it is investigating reports of electioneering materials appearing within restricted zones outside some polling stations in St James North during Wednesday’s by-election.

Chairman of the EBC, Ramon Alleyne, told Barbados TODAY that while voting has been proceeding smoothly, the commission received a few reports of infractions involving materials placed within 100 yards of polling stations, a clear breach of electoral rules.

EBC Chairman Ramon Alleyne.

“There have been some reports of infractions in relation to electioneering material within the 100-yard circumference of the polling stations. Those are being investigated, and to the extent that they are real, and there are any issues, they will be taken care of,” Alleyne said.

“Every report isn’t real. So, obviously, there’s an investigation, and to the extent that there’s any substance to it, we will then contact party representatives to say, ‘This is being indicated, this is what we require.'”

Despite those incidents, Alleyne reported that all polling stations opened on time and there have been no major glitches in the voting process.

“Today has been going quite well. All of the stations opened on time. We’ve had no reports of any glitches or issues with the process so far. All in all, I can say we are having a good day,” he said.

Voter turnout, according to Alleyne, has so far been steady. He noted that while the morning typically sees a heavier turnout, the rest of the day would determine whether participation levels match previous by-elections.

More than 8 500 registered electors are eligible to vote across seven polling stations in the constituency. Polls close at 6 p.m. (SM)