Halting of electronic voting system will not stop your vote, PNP tells voters

The People's National Party (PNP) is reassuring voters that the discontinuation of the Electronic Voter Identification and Ballot Issuing System (EVIS) by the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) in four constituencies will not prevent them from casting their ballots in today's polls.

The system was halted in Kingston Central, St Andrew Eastern, St Andrew Western, and St Andrew South Eastern.

The EOJ reportedly indicated that the decision was made due to operational considerations.

The PNP expressed deep concern over the lack of timely public communication and comprehensive justification for such a significant change to the voting process--especially in constituencies that have long used EVIS.

"The PNP strongly reassures all voters in the affected areas that this will not affect your ability to vote. The manual voting process remains fully operational, secure, and effective.

We urge all voters to:

Bring a valid voter ID

Go to your designated polling station

Follow the instructions of the trained election day workers

Reach out to your local PNP representatives with any questions or concerns."

EVIS was introduced into the voting system to help stem voter fraud, which had plagued Jamaica's elections over several years.

The system electronically identifies the voter and dispenses a ballot based on biometric recognition.

According to the party, it has been in dialogue with the EOJ and will continue to advocate for clarity, transparency, and strong public education.

"While we seek more detailed reasons for the change in these constituencies, we are satisfied that the manual system remains a safe and dependable method of voting," the PNP said.

The party encouraged all Jamaicans--especially its faithful supporters--not to be discouraged or confused by the change.

It added that it remains fully committed to ensuring every voter is informed and prepared to vote.

- Erica Virtue

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