By-Elections: Importance and Procedures

Elections are an integral part of Jamaica’s democratic process. By-elections refer to elections that are held when a vacancy arises in a constituency. A by-election ensures that individuals within a constituency are not left without political representation.

Procedures for By-Elections

Nominations

Candidates desirous of participating in a by-election can be nominated by the leaders of the political parties or independently.

All candidates who wish to contest the seat should submit nomination forms with signatures from 10 registered voters and pay the required fees to the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ).

Voting

Voting procedures for by-elections are the same as for general and local government elections. Electors must be registered to vote and should have a Voter ID card.

If a Voter ID card is not presented, voting will be allowed once the name can be found on the voters’ list and the voter’s identity can be confirmed by answering a series of questions at the polling stations.

Voting Provisions

Hours Allotted for Voting

According to Section 33 of the Representation of the People Act, which governs the staging of elections in Jamaica, voting must take place between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on election day.

Employers are required to allow employees up to three hours during the course of the work day to cast their votes, in addition to the lunch hour without any penalties. These provisions, however, do not apply to workers who commence work on election day at or after 10:00 a.m. or conclude work before or at 2:00 p.m.

Early Voting

Members of the Police Force, the Military as well as election day workers are allowed to vote three days earlier than the general public. This is done so that they can be of service to the public on election day.

For additional information contact:

Electoral Office of Jamaica
43 Duke Street
Kingston
Telephone: 876-922-0425-9
Toll-Free: 1-888-991-VOTE (8683)
Website: https://ecj.com.jm/
Boundaries/Parishes: https://ecj.com.jm/boundaries/parishes/
X: @ecjamaica
Instagram & Facebook: Electoral Office of Jamaica