Election Observer Missions In Barbados Ahead Of February 11 Polls

Representatives from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Commonwealth Election Observer Missions will begin arriving in Barbados tomorrow, Thursday, February 5.

The hosting of both delegations follows a formal invitation issued by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, who reaffirmed Barbados’ commitment to the highest standards of democratic practice, transparency, and the rule of law, adding that the observers’ presence will ensure that the electoral process remains beyond reproach and provide independent verification of the integrity of the polls.

Mandate of the Missions

During their stay in Barbados, the key objectives of the observer missions will be to:

• Monitor the conduct of the campaign, the administrative preparations, and the environment leading up to the polls.
• Oversee the voting process on Election Day, Wednesday, February 11, including the opening of polling stations, casting of ballots, and the subsequent counting and tabulation of results.
• Provide an impartial assessment of the electoral process in accordance with regional and international standards for democratic elections.

The observer missions are expected to meet with various stakeholders, including the Electoral and Boundaries Commission, representatives of political parties, members of the media, and civil society organisations. 

Following the conclusion of the election, the missions will issue preliminary statements on their findings before submitting final, comprehensive reports. (PR/GIS)