CARICOM observers urging Dominican Govt to implement electoral reforms

The Caribbean Community Election Observation Mission (CEOM) has said the results of Dominica’s General Election were “an accurate reflection of the collective intention of the voters”.

In a preliminary statement, the CEOM’s chief of mission Fern Narcis-Scope said that “voters were able to cast their ballots without intimidation or fear.”

“From observations, the polls were opened in a timely manner in the majority of the polling districts.  All the stations observed were fully staffed and most had at least one polling agent present, representing the ruling political party and independent candidates that contested the General Election. Most polling stations were conveniently located and easily accessible to the voters, though some instances of accessibility challenges for the disabled, elderly and infirmed were noted.”

Narcis-Scope, who is Trinidad and Tobago’s Chief Elections Officer, noted that voter turnout was low.

She stated the CEOM hopes Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit “will continue and build on the efforts to date, to secure electoral reform for future elections in Dominica”.

The CEOM comprised of Narcis-Scope, Alrick Daniel, Corey Greenidge, Arold Julien, Dave Williams and two CARICOM Secretariat support staff.

A full Independent Report will be prepared by Narcis-Scope for submission to the Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community. (Loop News)