ORG Questions Timing Of Biometric Voters Cards

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Organization for Responsible Governance says while biometric voter cards could modernize elections and bring long-term benefits, rolling them out just months before a general election could actually weaken public trust.

Under the recently passed Parliamentary Elections Amendment Act, the new cards would be valid for 10 years, replacing the current system, and require voters to update their biometric data each cycle.

The law also introduces an electronic poll book to speed up verification on election day.

But ORG’s Executive Director Matthew Aubrey has some reservations about the timing of the roll-out given a general election slated for next year.

The government has touted biometrics as a way to improve security, cut down on fraud, and modernize government services. 

But Aubrey argues the bigger issue is citizen confidence.

The new system has also been criticized  by Free National Movement Deputy Leader Shanendon Cartwright who questioned how secure the system will be given what he calls a rushed rollout.

Aubrey says with voter confidence already shaken by issues such as snap elections, changes to the registry, and limited public education, the introduction of biometrics should be handled with the greatest transparency.

The roll out for the new biometric system set for early 2026. ORG says they will continue to lobby for more public consultation and transparency