In response to unprecedented voter registration activity, the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) has implemented extended operating hours at the St. Philip’s North Registration Unit. This strategic decision comes as the nation prepares for a crucial March 16 by-election that will determine the successor to retired parliamentary veteran Sir Robin Yearwood.
The Commission’s February 25 public notice revealed that effective immediately, the Glanvilles Community Centre registration facility will maintain expanded operations from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, with additional weekend hours from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. These exceptional measures will remain in effect through March 15, the eve of the electoral contest.
Official statistics validate the necessity of these extended services. During the critical February 23-27 monitoring period, St. Philip’s North demonstrated remarkable electoral engagement, recording 42 replacement applications on February 25 alone—the highest single-day figure nationwide. The constituency’s weekly total of 106 replacement applications significantly outpaced all other regions, representing the majority of the Commission’s 144 total replacement requests across all constituencies.
The data further revealed 38 new voter registrations nationwide, indicating robust democratic participation. ABEC officials have formally advised residents to ‘be guided accordingly’ regarding the amended schedule, emphasizing the importance of electoral preparedness.
This administrative response highlights the competitive nature of the upcoming by-election and reflects the commission’s commitment to ensuring accessible voter services during this period of intensified civic engagement.