Authorities report smooth process as Disciplined Forces cast early votes

Members of the Disciplined Forces turned out early Friday morning to cast their ballots, as the first phase of voting for the September 1, 2025, General and Regional elections got underway.

Polls opened at 06:00 hrs promptly across the country, and according to officials, the process has so far proceeded smoothly.

Government-nominated GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj, who visited several polling stations, confirmed that the day began on time and without incident.

“The reports that we have received thus far is that everywhere was opened on time. No major issues at this point. I hope that this continues so that we can have the process concluded with as little incident as possible,” Gunraj said.

Another government-nominated GECOM Commissioner, Clement Rohee, also praised the conduct of the process, noting that the atmosphere was calm.

“From observation, the process seems to be moving smoothly. Procedures are being followed. From what I have observed everything seems to be calm and hopefully it would proceed like that for the rest of the day,” Rohee told the News Room.

Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Aneal Giddings, acknowledged that there were minor issues with some party agents who showed up without their required letters of appointment/accreditation.

“Some of the parties would not have issued their letters or their appointments,” he explained.

He noted that presiding officers and ballot attendants were working with agents to ensure representation while keeping the process on track. Importantly, this did not hamper the timely opening of polls.

Meanwhile, he also confirmed that aircraft movements are underway to facilitate the transportation of election materials and personnel in Regions 1, 8 and 9.

The rest of the country is expected to go to the polls on September 1, 2025.