PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – The Elections and Boundaries Commission says more than 16, 748 special electors are expected to cast their ballots ahead of the April 28 general elections in Trinidad and Tobago.
In a statement, the Commission said that “its Special Voting has successfully begun” on Sunday and that “the initial proceedings were relatively smooth.
“The establishment of Special Polling Stations, in keeping with special voting requirements, is an integral part of the Commission’s responsibility to conduct elections and will continue over the coming days.
“Designated Special Electors are reminded that they must actively engage in the process and are encouraged to collect their designated special envelopes promptly. This ensures proper participation and alignment with the special voting timeline, which is scheduled to end on Sunday 27th April 2025,” the Commission said.
It said that 16,748 Special Electors are expected to cast their votes in the upcoming days and that “over 1400 individuals exercised their right to vote” during Sunday’s proceedings.
The Commission said that the highest special voter turnout recorded on Sunday was in the Aranguez / St. Joseph Constituency, where special voters continued to wait within the Polling Station precinct beyond 3:00 pm (local time) to vote.
Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM) is seeking re-election in the constituency, which was recently renamed.
Deyalsingh, who has won the seat in the last two general elections, faces competition from four challengers including the leader of the National Transformation Alliance (NTA) and former police commissioner, Gary Griffith, attorney-at-law Devesh Maharaj representing the main opposition United National Congress (UNC), the leader of the Trinidad Humanity Campaign, Marcus Ramkissoon and Anthony Dolland of the Patriotic Front.
“Special Electors are reminded that their voting procedure differs from the standard process and may require additional time. As a result, longer-than-usual wait times were observed today at some locations. The Commission appreciates the patience and cooperation of all participants as we facilitate an effective and efficient electoral process,” the statement said.
The Commission announced that 17 political parties and three independent candidates are have nominated 161 candidates seeking to win seats in the 41 seat Parliament.
