Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis led debate in the House of Assembly on the Parliamentary Elections Amendment Bill on Wednesday.
The bill provides for voter verification every ten years and the use of biometric data to confirm or amend voter registration details among other things.
Mr. Davis told Parliamentarians, “we are replacing the concept of a permanent voter card with a secure biometric card that carries a ten year validity. That change is now embedded in the new section 14 (a). This card will be similar to size, shape and feel as to your driver’s license and or NIB card. The card will be valid for ten years.”
The Prime Minister also said that 80% of the electorate have biometric data on file at the passport office. The bill allows for this data to be transferred with the consent of the voter. He said this consent would eliminate the need for repeat biometric capture.
The process for issuing voter’s cards was also covered in Mr. Davis’ presentation. He explained, “during this process voters will appear in person, confirm or update their personal and biometric information and if needed receive a new card. The Parliamentary Commissioner will have the authority to conduct this exercise with flexibility in timing and location and penalties are set for false declarations.”
The aim of the new legislation is to reduce fraud and tampering risks and to improve the accuracy, security and efficiency of the electoral process.
