Upon detailed examination of the Representation of the People Act, it is clear that there is no need for any amendments to facilitate the replacement of Voter Identification Cards which will all expire on the 31st January 2020. The Parliamentary Elections Office (PEO) has been legally advised that the Act does not stipulate that Voter Identification Cards will expire on any given date. Therefore, expiration dates are a matter for administration of the Voter Identification Card system.
As a result, the PEO has decided to proceed with the process of replacement of expired cards in keeping with the intent of the Act.
Replacement of expired voter identification cards commences on Monday 3rd February 2020 at the respective Parliamentary Elections Offices within the hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Lunch hour is 1p.m. – 2p.m.
A registered elector is required to present his/her expired card, birth certificate or valid passport when making such an application. Thereafter, the applicant is expected to:
- have his/her photograph taken;
- have his/her fingerprint scanned;
- renew his/her signature.
The general public is assured that all expired cards would be replaced at no cost to the applicant and the PEO encourages applicants with changes in their registration information to use this opportunity to update their information at no cost.
The PEO further advises that voter registration process continues for all eligible persons.
The PEO wishes to express its gratitude to various stakeholders – respective political parties and the Grouping of Civil Society Organizations who participated in discussions on this issue. The PEO will continue to examine the Act to determine what amendments may be necessary and will continue to consult on the way forward. Any amendments will be done in a more comprehensive manner.
The general public is asked to be guided accordingly.
