The Tribune

By AVA TURNQUEST

Tribune Staff Reporter

aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Hubert Ingraham praised the continued growth of democracy and the electoral process in the Bahamas as the Advanced Poll will be conducted today.

More than 4,000 people expected to vote today would not have been eligible in previous terms, said Mr Ingraham, who called on citizens to engage in orderly and peaceful elections during a national address yesterday.

"I elected to address you this evening to express my appreciation for the strong democratic ties that bind us and to give credit to you, the Bahamian people, for the progress we continue to make through fair, open and transparent elections," Mr Ingraham said.

"Previously only uniformed officers and those working in the polls were allowed to participate in the Advanced Poll. This year, private citizens who are unable to vote on Election Day, Monday, May 7th, were permitted to register to vote on the Advanced Poll.

He added: "This is a great advance in our democracy; a true demonstration of the maturing process of our democracy which I am proud to say came on my watch."

Mr Ingraham advised that overseas voters will not be able to participate in the May 7th elections, whether or not they vote today. He also urged the electorate to pay close attention to their ballot to ensure that it is not rendered invalid through identifying marks or thumb prints.

"Elections are a time of high energy, strong feelings, heavy discussions and sometimes seemingly overwhelming pressure; do not allow yourselves to be overwhelmed by the process, rather hold true to your Christian values," he said.

"Encourage and support each other and appreciate and respect the rights of others. This is the time to exhibit our positive talents, express our views in constructive ways, consider the options and elect the candidates and Party that you feel will best serve our Bahamaland."

Mr Ingraham said Bahamians should take pride in the country's consistent record of having one of the world's highest voter turnout in general elections.

There are 7,865 voters registered to participate in tomorrow's advanced poll, voters include persons scheduled for medical care, government workers and students enrolled abroad.

This year marks the first time the country's electoral process will be observed by missions from the United States of America and from the Organization of American States, a total of 52 representatives.

In New Providence, polls will be hosted at the College of The Bahamas/Bahamas Tourism Centre and the Kendal G L Isaacs Gymnasium. Advance Polls will also take place in Grand Bahama, Abaco, Andros, Berry Island, Eleuthera, Exuma and Ragged Island. Voters in Cat Island, Long Island and MICAL may vote in New Providence.

Overseas registered Bahamian voters may vote in Washington, D.C.; Miami, Florida, New York City, Atlanta, Georgia; Ottawa Canada; London England; Kingston, Jamaica, Bridgetown, Barbados, and Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

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