EBC defends integrity of electoral process 

The Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) has defended the integrity of Barbados’ electoral process, stating that there is no evidence of wrongdoing despite recent public commentary questioning electoral activities.

The assurance comes just months after the commission’s announcement last November that 8 291 names from the national Register of Electors were flagged for removal as part of a major clean-up exercise, conducted after Barbados’ first full enumeration in more than 30 years.

Speaking at a media briefing on Saturday at Warrens Towers, St Michael, EBC Chairman Ramon Alleyne KC dismissed claims of political interference, emphasising that “no minister directs or controls the legislated work of the commission”. He stressed that the EBC is a constitutionally independent body.

While the commission relies on government agencies for logistical support, including the mailing of voter notices, Alleyne made it clear that such cooperation does not compromise its independence.

“Let me state clearly and unequivocally that the EBC has no evidence whatsoever of any attempt to steal, manipulate or otherwise compromise an election in Barbados. The electoral process remains lawful, transparent and firmly under the independent authority of the commission, as it has been for decades,” he said.

The chairman also addressed concerns surrounding the recent enumeration exercise and explained that with only 30 registering officers assigned across constituencies, the commission has historically relied on additional personnel to conduct island-wide enumeration — a practice used on every previous occasion.

In this instance, it was explained, postal workers were engaged due to their familiarity with addresses and communities and were trained and supervised by EBC staff. The commission described the exercise as “efficiently done and a success”.

Clarifying the publication of the list of persons proposed for deletion from the Register of Voters, Alleyne said removals can only occur under specific legislative conditions, including death, prolonged absence from Barbados exceeding five years, or upheld objections. He explained that publication of the list is a safeguard designed to allow public scrutiny and correction.

“The framers of this legislation obviously recognised that this is a process that needs to be checked and scrutinised,” he said.

The notice was published twice, with individuals given four weeks to review and correct any errors. Alleyne further stated that people who believe they were removed in error may still apply to be reinstated, even after an election is called, within the legally prescribed period.

Addressing concerns about deceased voters, Alleyne explained that information is received from the Registry Department, supplemented by data from enumeration and other government agencies.

While acknowledging that errors can occur, he said the system allows for verification and correction through public engagement.

He added that the commission “received hundreds of calls for specific categories for correction”, noting this as evidence that the process was functioning as intended. Final figures will be released in due course alongside the updated Register of Voters.

On election readiness, Alleyne said preparatory work is ongoing, noting that the commission is not notified in advance when an election is to be called.

“We find out at the same time as any ordinary citizen. Now there are preparatory steps we can take before the bell is rung; however, there are some things that can only be actioned when an election is called. The focus is on the integrity of the electoral process. It is not our role to intervene in party politics; however, the Commission is working diligently and remains ready whenever an election is called,” he said.

Alleyne expressed concern about misinformation and its potential impact on public confidence, explaining that the briefing was held to ensure accurate information is available.

“The mere fact that I am actually making this statement goes to the commission’s concern that misinformation out there may undermine the process,” he said. (DT)