BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has sought to correct misconceptions about the role of the police in the Nevis Elections.
A press release issued by the Acting Public Relations Officer for the organisation, Sergeant Stephen Hector, indicated that information issued by the Supervisor of Elections “and others”, suggests that police officers, on polling day, would be responsible for perusing the Voters’ List and advising persons regarding their eligibility to vote.
According to the release, however, this information is inaccurate as these duties do not fall under the ambit of the police.
“The Supervisor of Elections and others have published that Police Officers will be required to hold, peruse and advise persons who intend to join the voters line.
“The Commissioner of Police, with knowledge of the aforementioned (Supervisor of Elections), has instructed all Police Officers that this is not a duty of the Police Force on Election Day and the Police will not be engaged in such activities. Such information has also been communicated to the Divisional Commander and the Supervisor of Elections.”
In a brief outline of the police’s responsibilities, the communiqué explained that the RSCNPF is responsible for maintenance of law and order.
“The Police will however ensure that law and order and the preservation of the Queen’s Peace is maintained in accordance with the Constitution of the Federation, The Police Act, The National Assembly Elections Act, The Liquor Ordinance, The Public Meeting and Procession Act and all other relevant Laws within the Federation.”
“The voting public is advised that “restrictions will be imposed at Polling Stations so as to prevent persons from congregating within the demarked areas, such may in some cases alter the normal flow of traffic.
"The RSCNPF is requesting the assistance of the general public who will be participating in the Nevis Island Assembly elections to conduct themselves as expected in a civic manner.”
