BY-PRESS SECRETARY
The Dominica Parliament on Wednesday, March 19 passed three electoral reform bills, reinforcing the country’s commitment to free and fair elections.
The House of Assembly debated and passed the Registration of Electors Bill & Regulations (2024), the House of Assembly (Elections) & Registration Bill (2024), and the Electoral Commission Bill (2024), with bipartisan support.
The legislative measures aim to enhance electoral integrity, improve transparency, and modernise voting procedures in line with international best practices.
“Is this bill a significant improvement upon the existing Registration of Electors Act and will it significantly contribute to the improvement and modernisation of the registration and electoral process in Dominica? The answer is a resounding absolutely!” declared Attorney General, Hon. Levi Peter as he presented the bill to the parliament.
“The objective is always to establish and maintain an electoral system and process which is free, fair and free from fear; and which ensures that as many people as are qualified and lawfully entitled to exercise their franchise can do so,” he added.
The reforms introduce significant changes to strengthen the efficiency and fairness of the electoral process in Dominica.
The Registration of Electors Act makes provisions for mandatory voter confirmation during a specified period of 12 months, requiring valid documentation for verification.
Dominican citizens residing overseas who wish to be reconfirmed on the electors’ list will be required to do so in person in Dominica.
Voter Identification Cards will be issued containing key identifying information, including a photograph and advanced security features such as a unique identification number.
To enhance the autonomy and capacity of the Electoral Commission, the legislation provides for the establishment of the Electoral Commission Fund and other tools to empower the commission to oversee free and fair elections.
Usage of technology in voter registration and record management; introduction of the use of an electronic voting system; equal access to the media; and increased accessibility for persons with disabilities are also included in the legislation.
The passage of the legislation follows an independent assessment of Dominica’s electoral system conducted by renowned Caribbean jurist Sir Dennis Byron, who was engaged in 2020. In 2023, Sir Dennis submitted a comprehensive report outlining proposed legislative changes, which was made available for public review.
The Government organized a series of nationwide public consultations, allowing Dominicans to provide feedback on the proposed reforms.
The process was closely monitored by international organizations, including the Organization of American States (OAS), The Commonwealth, CARICOM, and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). OPM