The Organization of American States (OAS) Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) has released its findings and recommendations following Jamaica’s September 3 general election, pointing to strong management of polling day operations but also highlighting concerns over voter turnout, the accuracy of the voters’ list, accessibility, and the use of new technology.
According to the Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ), preliminary turnout stood at 39.5 percent, with the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) securing a majority in 35 constituencies and the People’s National Party (PNP) winning 28. The OAS noted that turnout has been declining and may be linked to issues surrounding the size and accuracy of the voters’ list, which grew by 26 percent between 2011 and 2025.
The Mission observed that while the ECJ updates the list twice a year, challenges remain in removing ineligible voters, including deceased persons, due to the absence of a centralized reporting system. The OAS recommended that authorities conduct a thorough assessment of the list to determine whether a new nationwide enumeration exercise is needed, alongside more frequent cleansing and stronger information-sharing mechanisms with relevant agencies.
On election day, all 7,294 polling stations opened, with 99.5 percent starting on time. The ECJ’s Election Information Management System (EIMS), which provides real-time updates on polling station operations and turnout, was praised as a good practice that enables transparency and supports oversight by political actors, media, and civil society.
The OAS also flagged accessibility concerns for persons with disabilities and the elderly, noting that while current laws allow assistance by presiding officers or companions, civil society groups have called for additional measures such as portable ramps, technology for deaf voters, and ballots in Braille. The Mission recommended inclusive consultations and the introduction of vehicle tags for transporting persons with disabilities.
Technology was another focal point of the report. For this election, handheld biometric devices were piloted in seven constituencies to identify voters through fingerprints. However, glitches led to delays, overcrowding, and inconsistent implementation when the devices were temporarily paused. The OAS urged stronger training for polling staff and clearer procedures for handling cases where fingerprints cannot be identified.
In addition, the Mission pointed to difficulties citizens faced accessing online election-related data in the lead-up to polling day, as the ECJ migrated its website to enhance security. It recommended storing historic and regulatory information separately from live election data to ensure continuous public access.
Despite these challenges, the OAS praised the overall administration of the vote, noting the ECJ’s commitment to strengthening Jamaica’s electoral process. Its recommendations, it said, are aimed at ensuring future elections are more inclusive, efficient, and transparent.
 has released its findings and recommendations following Jamaica’s September 3 general election.){kind=link}