The CARICOM Election Observation Mission (CEOM) has formally endorsed the credibility and transparency of Barbados’ February 11, 2026 General Election, concluding that the electoral outcome authentically represents the democratic will of the Barbadian populace. This three-member delegation, comprising senior electoral officials from Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, and Jamaica, conducted comprehensive oversight activities following an official invitation from the Barbadian government.
During pre-election assessments, the Mission engaged in extensive consultations with key national stakeholders including Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, leaders of minority political parties, civil society representatives, and electoral authorities. These discussions revealed several systemic concerns regarding voters’ list accuracy, accessibility for disabled citizens, campaign financing mechanisms, and media access equity. Despite these challenges, the Mission acknowledged the Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s concerted efforts to address logistical issues preceding election day.
On February 11, CEOM monitors observed electoral proceedings across nineteen constituencies, noting generally peaceful and orderly voting conditions. Polling stations opened punctually at 6:00 a.m. with adequate security presence and properly trained staff. While voter enthusiasm was evident, turnout rates appeared notably subdued throughout the day. The Mission documented inconsistencies in polling station configurations and identified accessibility barriers for elderly and disabled voters, though assistance protocols were generally implemented when required.
The vote counting process, though transparent and legally compliant, revealed operational inefficiencies due to centralized ballot transportation that prolonged result tabulation. The Mission witnessed ballot boxes being transported under police escort to counting centers where tallying occurred simultaneously in the presence of party agents, with results subsequently transmitted to media outlets.
In its preliminary assessment, the CEOM recognized the professional conduct of polling staff and security personnel while recommending three key improvements: enhanced physical accessibility at polling stations, decentralized counting procedures to accelerate result announcements, and comprehensive voters’ list management reforms. A detailed final report will be submitted to the CARICOM Secretary-General for distribution to Barbadian authorities and relevant stakeholders in the coming weeks.