KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Organisation of American States Electoral Observation Mission (OAS/EOM) in Jamaica, led by the former Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Kenny Anthony, is encouraging all registered voters to exercise the right to cast their ballot during the general elections on Wednesday.

“This right is essential to protecting, strengthening, and guaranteeing Jamaica’s commitment to democracy,” the OAS said.

The mission also recognised in advance the efforts of election day workers, party agents, and security personnel who will facilitate voting and called for the continuation of the civil maturity that has characterised this electoral process from citizens and stakeholders.

From the opening until the closing of the polls, the members of the mission will observe the vote in polling centres in all 14 parishes of Jamaica. The information gathered, along with the observations the OAS/EOM has collected during its deployment, will allow for the preparation of a report that highlights best practices, as well as areas for improvement and strengthening of the electoral system.

This is the fourth OAS Electoral Observation Mission in Jamaica, made possible through financial contributions of Canada, Chile, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Peru, Spain, Switzerland and the United States