Nomination Day April 16th, Advanced Poll April 30th

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – The writ of election has been given, paving the way for the general elections, but before that happens, several things need to take place.

First is nomination day on April 16th, when all prospective candidates bring their appropriate documents, their $400 deposit, along with five residents from their constituency.

Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson said they have already begun making preparations.

Harrison Thompson – Parliamentary Commissioner

“I met with the police earlier this morning to finalize some other logistical issues and be ready for nomination day on the 16th.”

Then there is the advance poll scheduled for April 30th, with special provisions made for those who need to cast their ballots early. In fact, more centres have been made available.

“We would have 12 centres set up in New Providence for the advance poll so that we don’t have a bundle at the polls. There will be at least two constituencies in each area so crowding would not be a major issue. Hopefully, the advance poll will cater to persons in the military, the police force, government agents, and political party candidates.”

Police Commissioner Shanta Knowles, in her role as provost marshal, read a proclamation for the dissolution of Parliament on Wednesday morning.

Dissolving Parliament ends the five-year parliamentary term, ordered by the Governor-General on the Prime Minister’s advice, which triggers a general election set for May 12th. Voters were rushing to registration centres throughout the day at the last minute.

Harrison Thompson – Parliamentary Commissioner

“I think the last of my team left around 3 a.m. this morning. I left shortly after 1 o’clock, but the team was in place. Even at other stations some came in a bit late.”