Chairman Orders Removal of Campaign Material Ahead of April 30 Poll

The chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission Arthur Thomas has called on political parties to remove all campaign paraphernalia from polling divisions ahead of the April 30 general elections, stressing that voting areas must remain neutral and free from undue influence.

“I also take this opportunity to remind all political parties of their legal and civic obligations to remove political paraphernalia from polling divisions ahead of Election Day,” Thomas said in a national address. “The polling environment must remain neutral, orderly and free from undue influence.”

The directive comes as the commission intensifies preparations for the upcoming vote, with officials seeking to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process.

The chairman also urged voters to complete the replacement of their voter identification cards, warning that participation in the election will not be permitted without a valid ID.

“If you have not yet replaced your voter’s ID card, you must do so immediately,” he said. “Let me be clear: No elector can be permitted to vote without a valid voter identification card.”

Thomas noted that the commission has extended operating hours, increased staffing and deployed additional resources to facilitate the replacement process, but said responsibility now lies with voters to act.

Beyond logistical preparations, the chairman appealed for orderly conduct on Election Day, calling on citizens to respect the process, election officials, security personnel and supporters of opposing parties.

“Order, compliance and mutual respect are not optional. They are essential to the credibility of the outcome,” he said.

Describing elections as the cornerstone of democracy, he urged the public to participate “responsibly, peacefully and lawfully,” adding that it is the collective duty of all citizens to uphold the country’s democratic traditions.