Governor spokesman Neil Smith today clarified to RTC news the misconception of nominations ahead of election day.
Mr. Smith said, ‘I received inquiries yesterday relating to what is acceptable proof of identity at the forthcoming election to ensure clear advice is available.’
He quoted from Section 44(10) of the Elections Ordinance which states:
“(c) the voter must produce his passport, drivers licence or such other official form of picture identification as will enable the presiding officer to confirm the voter’s identity”
This will be taken to include one of the following: Turks and Caicos Islander Status Card, passport, NIB card, NHIP card or Driver’s Licence. US and Bahamian Driver’s Licence will be accepted also.
A view was expressed today that two forms of photo ID were required. This is not the case – one of the above will normally be sufficient. However, this is at the discretion the Presiding Officer on the day. If the presented form of identity is unclear or believed to be unsatisfactory to establish the voter’s identity, the Presiding Officer is at liberty to request a second piece of picture identification by way of corroboration.
A birth certificate cannot be presented as a form of identification as it does not meet the requirement of being “picture identification”.
