The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Election Observation Mission has concluded that the February 11 General Election in Barbados reflected the will of the people.

The three-member mission,  which was deployed at the invitation of the Barbados government, said voters were generally able to cast their ballots in a peaceful, orderly and transparent environment. 

The team, made up of representatives from Antigua and Barbuda, Belize and Jamaica, based its findings on consultations with stakeholders and direct observation of voting and counting procedures.

Ahead of Polling Day, the mission met with several officials and groups, including Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, political party representatives, members of civil society, law enforcement officials and the Electoral and Boundaries Commission. 

During those discussions, concerns were raised about the composition and transparency of the voters’ list, access for persons with disabilities, campaign financing, media access, voter education and the absence of fixed election dates.

Observers acknowledged concerns surrounding voter enumeration, including reports of missing names, confusion over polling stations and allegations that deceased persons remained on the list. 

However, the mission noted that the Electoral and Boundaries Commission made efforts to address the issues before voting began.

On Election Day, observers visited polling stations in 19 of the country’s 30 constituencies and reported that stations opened on time, were adequately staffed and had the necessary materials in place. 

Police presence was visible and voters appeared eager to participate. Polling staff were described as professional and courteous, and voting procedures were carried out in accordance with established laws.

The mission, however, noted that voter turnout appeared low throughout the day and flagged inconsistencies in the positioning of voting booths. 

It also observed that voters’ lists were not displayed at polling stations for public verification, and there were reports of some individuals being unable to vote because their names were not found on station lists. 

While assistance was provided to elderly and incapacitated voters, observers said some polling stations presented accessibility challenges for persons with disabilities and those with limited mobility.

The closing of polls and the transportation of ballot boxes were carried out according to established guidelines, with ballot boxes escorted by police officers and accompanied by party agents to counting centres. 

The counting process was described as transparent and consistent with legal procedures, although observers noted that the centralised transport and counting of ballots contributed to delays in tabulating results.

The mission recommended improvements to accessibility at polling stations, a review of voter registration and enumeration procedures to improve the accuracy of voters’ lists, and consideration of decentralised vote counting at polling stations to speed up results and reduce logistical risks.

Despite the concerns raised, the mission said the issues identified were not significant enough to impact the outcome of the election. 

Observers also commended polling staff, law enforcement, political parties and supporters for maintaining a peaceful atmosphere throughout the electoral process. 

The mission is expected to submit a final report with detailed findings and recommendations to CARICOM leadership and relevant Barbadian authorities in the coming weeks.