Make voting more convenient

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Would it not be far better for Jamaica’s democracy, for our nation, and for the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) if, as happens in the United States – voting began weeks ahead of election day?

Currently, the voting only takes place on the election day which, to me, makes for a longer and more inconvenient process than need be. If polling stations were opened three or two weeks or even one week in advance, it seems to me that the inordinate amount of time spent, for the average person to cast his/her ballot would be significantly reduced. Also, the time spent by the EOJ to count ballots would be reduced. This will also result in people less time spent away from work to vote. This exercise may increase voter turnout.

Last, though electronic voting hasn’t been introduced in Jamaica, polling stations could be set up and opened, at least a week in advance of election day. The realisation of a more flexible, more inclusive, and smoother voting process would, by extension, serve to strengthen Jamaica’s democracy and make for more content and more satisfied members of the electorate.

PATRICK GALLIMORE

pagalley@protonmail.com