ECJ Says 14.8% Voter Turnout In Jamaican Election Up To 11AM

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JAMAICA – Jamaicans headed to the polls today as voting opened at 7 a.m. and closed at 5 p.m., with polls now closed for over an hour in the Bahamas’ time zone.

Voter turnout by 11 a.m. was low, with only 14.8 percent of registered voters casting ballots, raising questions about engagement across the region as Bahamians prepare for their own elections.

Both Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Opposition Leader Mark Golding expressed confidence in their campaigns, despite polls indicating a competitive race.

Holness voted early at Mona High School in Saint Andrew Eastern, where the constituency is also contested by JLP’s Fayval Williams, NDP’s Patricia Duncan Sutherland, and GPP’s Karl Cargill.

Holness addressed questions about corruption and polling, emphasizing the need for efficient, transparent systems rather than focusing only on name-and-shame approaches.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving bureaucratic efficiency through the “Speed Program.”

Voters spoke of a calm and peaceful process, noting the strong presence of security personnel and organized procedures at polling stations. Many citizens advised those undecided to participate, assuring them of a safe voting experience.

Security forces, including the Jamaica Defence Force, Jamaica Constabulary Force, and MOCA officers, ensured order throughout the day, with observers reporting a steady flow of voters and a peaceful environment.