Caricom Observers Confirm Bahamas Election Reflected People's Will

A nine-member Caribbean Community (Caricom) Election Observation Mission (CEOM) has concluded that the general elections in The Bahamas were conducted peacefully and orderly, reflecting the will of the people. Invited by Governor-General Dame Cynthia A. Pratt, the mission included electoral experts from various Caribbean nations. Observers monitored 317 polling divisions across New Providence and Grand Bahama, noting that polls opened promptly at 8:00 am with only minor delays. The team praised the professionalism of polling staff, police, and election workers, particularly for their assistance to elderly voters. While minor procedural inconsistencies were observed, they did not disrupt the overall process. Ballot counting and transfer were conducted transparently in the presence of party agents and observers. The CEOM commended the Parliamentary Registration Department and the Bahamian public for maintaining a calm atmosphere. Voter turnout was steady in the morning and evening, with lower activity midday. Most polling stations closed at the scheduled 6:00 pm time. A final report with detailed findings and recommendations will be submitted to the Caricom secretary-general in the coming weeks.