The management of the electoral processes in Antigua and Barbuda has attracted international attention after the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) won the Electoral Management Award at an international conference.
In a statement, ABEC said it won the award at the the 21st International Electoral Awards ceremony, which took place in Gaborone, Botswana on Friday.
This milestone marks the first time in its history that ABEC has captured the top prize in this category.
The awards ceremony was part of the 21st International Electoral Awards & Symposium, a global gathering of electoral commissions, governance experts, and democracy advocates. The finalists for the Electoral Management Award were ABEC, the National Electoral Institute of Mexico, and the Chhattisgarh State Electoral Commission of India, and ABEC emerged as the winner.
ABEC was represented at the event by Vernest Mack, Member of the Commission, and Trissy Bowers, Executive Secretary to the Commission. Their attendance and participation underscored ABEC’s commitment to international standards in electoral administration, transparency, and best practices.
In reflecting on this historic achievement, Ambassador Arthur G. B. Thomas, Chairman of ABEC, said:
“As ABEC is recognized with the Electoral Management Award in Botswana, we celebrate not only an institution but a people. This honour is for Antigua and Barbuda — for every citizen who treasures their vote and for every partner who believes in our democracy. This award tells the world that from our small islands, we can stand tall in integrity and fairness, showing that our voice in democracy is strong, resilient, and unshakable. May this recognition strengthen our resolve to deepen trust, elevate transparency, and safeguard the inalienable right of the people to elect their leaders — now, and always.”
Supervisor of Elections, Ian S Hughes also expressed “this award is a testament to the unwavering dedication, integrity, and professionalism of the entire ABEC team. It reaffirms our commitment to upholding democratic values and delivering credible, transparent elections for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.”
The Commission extends heartfelt congratulations to every member of staff whose diligence, discipline, and dedication have helped make this recognition possible.
ABEC affirms its determination to build upon this momentum to further strengthen electoral processes, deepen stakeholder engagement, and uphold the highest standards of fairness and credibility in all elections to come.
