Independent Observers Praise Well-Run General Election in the British Virgin Islands

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) independent election observation mission has released its report on the 2023 General Election in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). The team of eight observers visited the BVI from 17th to 27th April to assess the electoral process and its compliance with international obligations and domestic laws.

The observers concluded that Election Day was conducted in an orderly, peaceful, and well-run manner. They also noted that the voting on Advance Polling Day proceeded smoothly. The observers commended the legal framework in place, which provides a solid foundation for democratic elections in the territory.

However, the mission identified areas for improvement and made 14 recommendations in their report. One of the key areas highlighted was the lack of campaign finance regulations. Despite several international instruments emphasizing fairness and transparency in election conduct, no legal changes were implemented before this election. The mission also recommended clarifying the policies and practices regarding the “belongership” status required for voting eligibility.

This marks the fourth election in the BVI that the CPA has observed since 2011, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to ensuring transparent and fair electoral processes.

Hon Fatoumatta Njai from The Gambia, who served as the Head of Mission, praised the well-administered election and commended the professionalism of polling staff. Efforts to promote voting among elderly voters and individuals with disabilities were also acknowledged.

The full report of the Election Observation Mission is now publicly available, following the preliminary statement issued shortly after Election Day.

The Governor of the British Virgin Islands, John Rankin CMG, welcomed the report and emphasized the importance of free and fair elections in democratic societies. He commended the Supervisor of Elections and her team for their diligent work in ensuring a well-run election. Governor Rankin also highlighted the 14 recommendations made by the CPA and expressed hope that the government and members of the House of Assembly would address them, particularly the need for campaign financing regulations.

The Supervisor of Elections echoed the sentiments expressed in the report and emphasized the Office’s commitment to strengthening electoral processes. She expressed the hope that the new administration would prioritize electoral reform early in its tenure to enhance the transparency and impartiality of future elections.

The CPA British Islands & Mediterranean Region (CPA BIMR), which acts as a secretariat to the UK branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA UK), is dedicated to promoting democracy and good governance. The CPA BIMR has been organizing Election Observer Missions in UK Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies since 2011.

Click link below for final report

final-report-bvi-final-version.pdf (uk-cpa.org)