Organization of American States (OAS)
OAS to Observe Parliamentary General Elections in Jamaica
By OAS
Feb 12, 2016 - 2:39:50 PM


The Organization of American States (OAS) will deploy an Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) to the February 25 parliamentary general elections in Jamaica. The Mission will be headed by Janet Bostwick, former Attorney General and Minister of Foreign Affairs of The Bahamas, and will be composed by 21 observers from 17 countries.

OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, and the Permanent Representative of Jamaica to the OAS, Ralph Samuel Thomas, today signed the agreement at the Organization's headquarters. The OAS leader highlighted the Organization's commitment to "accompanying Jamaica in this important democratic exercise." This will be the third EOM sent by the OAS to Jamaica.

Ambassador Thomas thanked the OAS for its support in strengthening of democracy in the Americas and highlighted the democratic tradition of his country. He added that "Jamaica is ready to welcome the Mission and facilitate its work."

During its visit to Jamaica, the Mission will implement methodologies to observe political financing, gender equity, and electoral organization and technology, among other issues.

In addition, and prior to the deployment of the Mission, the OAS expressed its concern regarding the incidents of violence that took place during political events this week, which resulted in the deaths of three people. The OAS/EOM supports the stand taken by the Electoral Commission of Jamaica against political violence, which has no place in democracy.

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