Voters in Antigua and Barbuda head to polls under watch of Commonwealth Observer Group

Polling stations across the twin island nation opened at 6:00 a.m., with election officials, party agents and Commonwealth observers already in place to oversee the process. The doors will remain open until 6:00 p.m., giving thousands of registered voters a full day to cast their ballots in what is widely seen as an important contest.

Voter Nevelyn Noel, 35, who has been disabled since birth, says she is excited about the opportunity to vote. 

“Whoever is elected should step up and do the work, not just make promises. They need to listen to people in the community and understand the real challenges we face every day. That’s especially important for people with disabilities, who often depend on strong advocacy, access to resources, and leaders who are willing to stand up for our needs”.

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More than 63,000 registered voters are eligible to participate, casting ballots across 17 constituencies at approximately 190 polling stations set up in schools, community centres and public buildings. From the capital of St John’s to the smaller, closely watched constituency of Barbuda, the rhythm of election day quickly took shape with orderly lines, checked identification and ballots carefully issued under the watchful eyes of Commonwealth observers.

The Commonwealth Observer Group Chairperson, former Foreign Affairs Minister of Botswana, Hon. Dr. Pelonomi Venson, who was present as queues formed, said that it’s a remarkable experience as a politician to witness citizens in another country exercise their democratic right to vote.

“Elections like these remind us why observation matters. To stand in a polling station and watch everyday citizen take part in shaping their country’s future is both humbling and reaffirming. The people of Antigua and Barbuda are demonstrating a clear commitment to the democratic process”. 

The Commonwealth Observer Group is deployed throughout the islands, observing the opening procedures and the entire process through to the close of polls and the management of results.

Today’s vote follows an early decision by Prime Minister Gaston Browne to dissolve Parliament ahead of the expected 2028 timeline.

Inside polling stations, the process unfolds steadily and with quiet precision. Voters are verified against the register, ballots are stamped and issued, and each person moves behind the screen to mark their choice. The routine repeats itself throughout the day in a continuous flow, as officials guide the process through to the close of polls.
  
The Commonwealth observers will continue to observe proceedings through the close of polls and the management of results. The observer group will issue a preliminary statement on 1 May.

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