Written By: Marlene Freeman
Opposition Spokesperson on National Security Peter Bunting has called on the electoral office to clarify reports that the polling station for some police officers has been changed from the traditional rural locations to Kingston.
Bunting noted that this change puts these special electors at risk of Disenfranchisement.
In a statement today, Bunting pointed to what he deems troubling anomalies in the arrangements for election day workers and the security forces which will take place tomorrow.
This exercise allows election day workers, members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, and the Jamaica Defence Force to cast their ballots ahead of the general election on September 3.
Bunting said the PNP received reports that some police officers assigned to non-geographic formations, such as the chaplaincy and the national intelligence bureau have had their polling stations changed to Kingston.
Prior to the change these cops were allowed to vote in rural parishes across the island.
Bunting wants the EOJ and the Police High Command to implement measures to prevent disenfranchisement.
Meanwhile, the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) says the assignment of police and military personnel to voting locations, are determined by information received from the High Command of the Jamaica Constabulary and Defence Forces.
The EOJ’s response comes amidst concern from the People’s National Party that several officers are likely to be disenfranchised because their polling stations were reportedly changed to Kingston despite having previously voted in rural parishes across the island for their entire careers.
The PNP said those not aware of the change could face difficulties with voting tomorrow.
In a statement this afternoon, the EOJ said prior to the announcement of the election police and military officers were advised through the media and other channels to check the voters’ list to ensure that they are assigned to the correct location.
