The government has again rejected claims that citizens will be disenfranchised during elections, if they don’t possess a Trident National Identification Card.
Responding to comments in recent days on a radio call-in programme that “cast doubt on the standing of Barbados’ national institutions and the rights of Barbadians”, a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) issued Wednesday, said “no eligible elector is denied a ballot solely for lack of an identification card”.
The PMO also gave the assurance that elections are governed by The Representation of The People Act Cap 12 and the Election Rules.
It added: “Once you have a national registration number, you are on the Register of Electors. On polling day, the presiding officer will ask for your identification card, but if it has not yet been issued, or it is lost or destroyed, you may still receive your ballot.”
The government statement continued: “The Electoral and Boundaries Commission already holds your registration details and photograph linked to your number, so you can be identified at the station whether or not you have a Trident card with you. If you prefer, you may present a passport or a driving licence.”
It also points out that the Barbados Identity Management Act, 2021 provides for the use of the Barbados National Identification Card for the purpose of voting in an election in Barbados.
“The use of the old, laminated Identification Cards,” the statement noted, “is permitted until they are replaced. This is the policy, as recent as the by-election in St James North, and it will be followed. The Government of Barbados will continue to revise the legislation so that policy and statute are in full harmony.” (EJ/PR)
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