Scores in Nevis rush to beat voting confirmation deadline

By Pauline Waruguru
Nevis Reporter-SKNVibes.com

CHARLESTOWN, Nevis - THE Electoral Office and its precincts housed on the ground floor of the Nevis Co-operative and Credit Union building was the central point of activity yesterday as voters rushed in the 11th hour to confirm their registration.

Voters stood in long queues as they tried to beat the deadline. Nevis' political party enthusiasts were busy mobilising potential voters to confirm their registration. The enthusiasts drove voters from their homes to the electoral office while many others texted or called voters to rush to beat the deadline.

Staff at the Electoral Office remained behind closed doors as a police officer stood outside to maintain orderliness. However, there was occasional trading of words, but with a light touch, between supporters of the Nevis Reformation Party (NRP) and the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM).

Members of Parliament were also seen actively involved in making sure as many voters as possible confirmed their registration.

Members of the media were unable to obtain comments from the staff at the Electoral Office, who referred them to the Supervisor of Elections on St. Kitts.

Parties’ enthusiasts encouraged those who might not make it to confirm to register as new voters during this period, but potential voters were afraid that they might be shut out from voting next year should the elections be called early.

A large turn-out of voters seeking to confirm their registration is expected today. The confirmation process began on December 27, 2007 and is scheduled to conclude today (Sept. 30, 2008). ~~Adz:Left~~