Barbados’ Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) has issued a robust defense of the nation’s electoral integrity, forcefully rejecting allegations of misconduct while addressing recent public concerns about voting procedures. The commission’s chairman, Ramon Alleyne KC, delivered a comprehensive briefing to media representatives at Warrens Towers, St Michael, categorically dismissing suggestions of political interference in electoral operations.
Alleyne emphasized the EBC’s constitutional independence, stating unequivocally that no government minister directs or controls the commission’s legislated responsibilities. This declaration comes several months after the EBC’s November announcement identifying 8,291 names for potential removal from the national Register of Electors—a substantial clean-up initiative following Barbados’ first comprehensive enumeration exercise in over three decades.
The chairman addressed specific concerns regarding the enumeration process, explaining that the commission historically engages additional personnel beyond its core staff of 30 registering officers for island-wide operations. In this instance, postal workers were recruited due to their extensive community knowledge and address familiarity, with all personnel receiving thorough training and supervision from EBC staff. The commission characterized this collaborative effort as both efficient and successful.
Regarding the published list of individuals slated for removal from voter rolls, Alleyne clarified that deletions only occur under strict legislative conditions: confirmed death, verified absence from Barbados exceeding five years, or substantiated objections. The publication process serves as a critical transparency measure, allowing for public verification and correction over a four-week period with dual notifications.
Alleyne acknowledged the commission’s ongoing preparatory work for future elections while noting that the EBC receives no advance notification of election timing. He expressed particular concern about circulating misinformation potentially undermining public confidence in electoral institutions, stating the media briefing aimed to provide accurate information directly to citizens. The commission confirmed it has received hundreds of correction requests, demonstrating the system’s built-in verification mechanisms are functioning as intended.