The United Progressive Party (UPP) is sounding a clarion call to the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) to ensure that voters are not disenfranchised because of COVID-19 at the next polls.
This call to ABEC and, by extension the Government, is to ensure that all eligible voters are accommodated in the upcoming general elections.
According to the Party, it is observing, with keen interest, “the situation unfolding in Barbados, where voters are being disenfranchised because of their COVID-19 status.”
The UPP says that not even illness should deprive an eligible voter from casting his or her ballot.
Therefore, since the end of the pandemic is not in sight, the Party is urging ABEC to come up with mechanisms by which all voters can exercise their franchise in a safe environment.
“Nothing less will be acceptable or accepted in this democracy,” the Party states in no uncertain terms.
In an effort to ensure that residents are aware, informed and empowered, the UPP will host a panel discussion, at 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 20, in which it will explore the legal rights of voters and the responsibilities of the Electoral Commission.
This event will be carried live on Progressive 107.3 FM and via the Party’s Facebook page, where persons can also submit questions to the panel.
The UPP says it is committed to the holding of elections that are transparent, free, fair and free of fear. It reminds ABEC that these form the basis of a stable and safe democracy that upholds the rule of law.
