NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS — The Parliamentary Registration Department convened a coordination meeting on Thursday, November 13, with nominees contesting the upcoming November 24 by-election in the Golden Isles constituency. The session was part of the department’s ongoing efforts to ensure a smooth, transparent, and well-managed electoral process, setting the pace for orderly and credible elections.
The meeting was led by Parliamentary Commissioner Harrison Thompson, who welcomed participants and reaffirmed the department’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of fairness, efficiency, and transparency throughout the by-election period. Representatives from political parties, the independent candidate, election consultants, law enforcement, and senior departmental officials gathered for a focused discussion on election readiness.
During the session, officials outlined procedural expectations, reviewed key provisions of the electoral framework, and emphasized the importance of compliance with established regulations. Participants were briefed on operational matters, including polling logistics, agent protocols, advanced polling procedures, and coordination with law enforcement. The department reiterated that all legal requirements would be fully enforced to preserve the integrity of the process.
Candidates and party representatives were invited to raise any concerns related to registration or election administration. Commissioner Thompson noted that the purpose of the engagement was to ensure all stakeholders clearly understand the procedures in place, are aligned on expectations, and have an open channel to address practical issues ahead of Election Day. Officials expressed confidence that the by-election would reflect the country’s strong democratic traditions and encouraged all participants to maintain a respectful and cooperative atmosphere as preparations continue.
Several participants used the meeting to highlight concerns about procedural consistency, including questions about how supporter limits would be enforced across candidates during major election activities and whether all parties would receive equal access to information and logistical updates. Others sought clarification on the handling of polling agents, the transportation and security of materials, and communication protocols on Election Day. Officials noted that these concerns reflect stakeholders’ shared interest in ensuring a fair, transparent, and efficiently managed electoral process in Golden Isles.
The by-election follows the passing of former Progressive Liberal Party Cabinet Minister and Golden Isles Member of Parliament Vaughn Miller. Nomination Day took place on Friday, October 31, at Anatol Rodgers High School, where four individuals were officially validated in the process. When voters in Golden Isles head to the polls on November 24, they will choose among Brian Brown for the Free National Movement, independent candidate Karen Kim Butler, Darron Pickstock for the Progressive Liberal Party, and Brian Rolle for the Coalition of Independents.
Nearly 8,000 registered voters are eligible to cast ballots in the November 24 by-election, with 283 persons eligible for the Advanced Poll, scheduled for Monday, November 17, at Remnant Tabernacle Church from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Originally designed for members of the armed forces who could not vote on Election Day due to national duties, the Advanced Poll now also accommodates poll workers, political party agents, senior citizens, and voters with medical or travel needs.
A voter verification exercise ahead of the upcoming general elections is currently underway, providing citizens with an essential opportunity to confirm their existing information, correct discrepancies, and, if they choose, allow their biometric data to be securely transferred from their passport to the voter register. Voters attending verification stations are encouraged to present a Bahamian passport or their current voter’s card.
As the by-election approaches, the department assured the public that stringent transparency measures, clearly defined procedures, and impartial oversight remain firmly in place to safeguard the integrity of the entire electoral process. Officials emphasized that every effort is being made to ensure a fair, transparent, and trustworthy voting experience so that all eligible Bahamians can cast their ballots with confidence.
