The Commonwealth Observer Group has found that The Bahamas’ 12 May 2026 general election was credible, peaceful and competitive, while calling for key reforms to strengthen electoral governance and public confidence ahead of future polls.
The Group’s final report, released today, commends the professionalism of election officials and security personnel, and the orderly conduct of polling day. The observers found that voters were able to exercise their democratic rights freely and that the election was administered largely in accordance with the law.
Led by former Jamaican Prime Minister Hon. Bruce Golding, the Group identified several areas where reform would help strengthen electoral governance and address concerns raised by stakeholders during the electoral process.
Among its principal recommendations are the establishment of an independent electoral management authority responsible for voter registration and the conduct of elections, the enactment of comprehensive campaign finance legislation, and the adoption of a political code of conduct to promote agreed standards of behaviour during election campaigns.
The report also calls for the full implementation of the Freedom of Information Act 2017, greater transparency and public consultation in future constituency boundary reviews, and enhanced voter education initiatives to address declining electoral participation.
The Group expressed particular concern about indications of historically low voter turnout and encouraged a broad-based review of the factors contributing to declining participation, especially among young people. It also urged political parties to take active steps to increase the representation of women in elected office and leadership positions.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Hon. Shirley Botchwey, who constituted the Observer Group and received its report, said:
“The Bahamas has once again demonstrated democratic resilience through a peaceful and credible election. While the Commonwealth Observer Group has identified areas for reform, these are aimed at building on an already strong democratic foundation. Strengthening electoral institutions, enhancing transparency and encouraging greater citizen participation will help ensure that future elections continue to command the confidence of the Bahamian people.”
The Commonwealth Observer Group’s final report has been formally transmitted to the Government of The Bahamas and shared with the leadership of contesting political parties, as well as key electoral stakeholders and relevant national institutions.
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