Observer groups confirm for Jamaica’s September 3 general election

Three international and local observer groups have confirmed their participation in monitoring Jamaica’s September 3 general election, the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) announced on Wednesday.

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The observer missions will come from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organization of American States (OAS), and Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE). The OAS mission will be led by former Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Dr. Kenny Anthony.

Meanwhile, preparations for the polls are moving forward, with the EOJ confirming that the printing of ballot papers has begun following the close of nominations on August 18.

A total of 63 candidates were nominated each by the ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and the opposition People’s National Party (PNP). The Jamaica Progressive Party (JPP) nominated 43 candidates, while the United Independents’ Congress nominated seven. Eight independents have also entered the race.

In addition, six candidates have been nominated for by-elections in Chancery Hall, Olympic Gardens, and Denham Town.

The EOJ said other preparations are advancing, including the printing of voters’ lists, deployment of Election Day workers, and distribution of supplies. More than 7,250 polling stations will be used across the 63 constituencies.

Voting for members of the Special Services — including police, military personnel, and election workers — will be held on Friday, August 29, ahead of the general polls.

Director of Elections Glasspole Brown is encouraging electors to confirm their registration and polling information before Election Day.

“First, for you to be on the list, you would have to be registered. As soon as you are registered, you would have been given a voters’ ID card. Apart from that, you can make contact with the different offices,” Brown said.

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He noted that electors can also access information through the EOJ’s constituency offices, its head office on Duke Street in Kingston, or via the Electoral Commission of Jamaica website at www.ecj.com.jm
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“On our website, you can click on ‘query’ and follow the instructions, and that could guide you as to exactly where you are registered to vote and the address of your polling station,” Brown explained, stressing that this information is only available to persons on the voters’ list.