Political parties in St Vincent and the Grenadines have unanimously expressed satisfaction with the ballot paper specimen and ballot box with locks, which are to be used in tomorrow’s General Elections.

This is according to a release from the Electoral Office this week.

According to the release, political parties met with Electoral Office officials on November 2 to address concerns raised in relation to the ballot paper, ballot box and COVID-19 protocols for 2020 General Elections.

“The parties were given specimen of the ballot paper; and allowed to examine the ballot box with its locks; they also witnessed a demonstration of the use of hand sanitizer and its effects on the finger when the indelible ink is applied. 

“The Electoral Office expresses appreciation for the spirit of cooperation shown by the parties and is encouraging all to follow the COVID-19 protocols to minimise the risk of potential spread of COVID-19 during the conduct of the General Elections,” the release said.

It noted that political parties were also pleased that the sanitization process will have no impact on the indelible ink.

Polls open at 7 am tomorrow and close at 5 pm for regular voters.

Special voting arrangements are in place for persons eligible to vote and are in quarantine, and have been issued a medical officer’s certificate. They will vote at their respective polling station between 5pm and 5:30pm.

[UPDATED at 7:11 pm AST on November 4 to include additional information from the press release.]