In keeping with the 2020 Elections Amendment Ordinance, the voting process in The Turks and Caicos Islands is poised to see a vast improvement in efficiency and transparency with the implementation of the Electronic Tabulating System, specifically the DS200 Precinct Scanner and Tabulator (DS200), in the upcoming general elections.
As part of their commitment to ensuring the voting public has ample opportunity to familiarize themselves with this new technology, the Elections Department is hosting a live demonstration on Thursday, May 16 at the Edward C. Gartland Youth Centre. The event is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. and will provide a demonstration of the machines in action as well as allow persons to ask questions about the new machines and their impact on the voting process.
The new system promises to streamline the voting process, ensuring efficiency and accuracy by electronically tabulating each vote. By leveraging this system, voters can expect reduced wait times at polling stations while enabling the swift tabulation of results. This advancement will facilitate timely reporting and analysis, marking a significant step towards more expedited and transparent elections.
Speaking on these new initiatives, Election Supervisor Dudley Lewis said, “The introduction of the DS200 Precinct Scanner and Tabulator will increase the efficiency of the voting process and eliminate the need for the tedious hand count of ballots that previously lasted through the night. This simply means that winners will be announced as early as 8:00 p.m. on voting day, reflecting a more efficient and timely election outcome announcement.”
This innovative approach aligns with the 2020 Elections Amendment Ordinance, aimed at enhancing the electoral process through modern technology. It further underscores the commitment of the Turks and Caicos Islands' Government to conducting elections that are efficient and uphold the highest standards of accuracy and transparency.
Lewis said, “In addition to the live demonstration scheduled for May 16, my department will conduct town halls and other outreach events to showcase the new voting technology for the general public, candidates and the press, as well as provide training for poll workers.”
He continued, "We will hold training sessions with mock exercises in all electoral districts to help familiarize voters with the system before Election Day," he stated.
For further information and inquiries on voter registration and the Electronic Tabulating System implementation, individuals are encouraged to visit the Election Department’s website at www.gov.tc/elections. For inquiries, please reach out via phone at 649-338-2301 or email at
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ABOUT: The Turks and Caicos Elections Department is responsible for overseeing the electoral process in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This includes voter registration, conducting elections, ensuring fairness, and transparency in the electoral process, and upholding electoral laws and regulations. The department plays a crucial role in upholding democracy and facilitating free and fair elections in the TCI.