Uncollected Voter ID Cards Surpass 150,000 as General Election Nears: EOJ Urges Citizens to Act Now

EOJ Urges Jamaicans to Collect IDs Before September 3

The number of uncollected voter identification cards in Jamaica has risen to an alarming level, nearing 150,000 just months before the next general election, which is constitutionally due by September 3rd. The Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) and the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) are appealing to citizens to collect their IDs now to ensure smoother voting on election day.

Thousands of IDs Unclaimed Since 2019 Renewal Exercise

Director of Elections Glaspool Brown revealed that over 120,000 cards remained uncollected as of April, with another 20,000 voters added to the May 31 updated voters’ list. Many of these unclaimed cards are from the EOJ’s 2019 renewal exercise, initiated when earlier voter IDs were set to expire. While the validity of these older cards was extended to 2021, thousands remain in EOJ constituency offices across the island.

Automatic Renewal Process Leaves Voters Unaware

Part of the backlog stems from the automatic renewal process. Mr. Brown explained that voters who received cards after 2016 most likely already have a renewed card awaiting collection—even if they never visited the office to request one. This highlights the need for Jamaicans to proactively check with their constituency office.

Voting Without ID Allowed, But Will Cause Delays

Although enumerated voters can vote without their physical voter ID card, the EOJ stresses that this will lead to delays at polling stations. Without the card, additional verification steps such as administering an oath and performing manual checks are required, lengthening the time it takes for each voter to cast their ballot.

EOJ’s Call to Action: Collect Your Card Now

The EOJ fears that this situation, if left unresolved, could significantly slow down operations at polling stations islandwide during the impending election. Voter ID cards are critical for streamlining the voting process and avoiding congestion at polling locations.

In response, the EOJ is urging all registered voters to contact their local constituency office immediately to confirm if their card is ready and collect it without delay.

Civic Duty and Election Readiness

As the election draws closer, Jamaicans are reminded that civic responsibility goes beyond simply voting—it means preparing to vote efficiently and respectfully. Collecting your ID card is a key part of that preparation.

The EOJ’s message is clear and timely:
“Your ID card is ready. Collect it now and help make election day efficient for everyone.”