“Absolutely unacceptable1”
Those are the words of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley following news that the Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) intends to question its staff about their vote.
Dr Rowley made the post to his Facebook page this morning in response to the revelation from the EBC chairman, Mark Ramkerrysingh, at an election coverage workshop hosted by the TTPBA (Trinidad and Tobago Publishers and Broadcaster Association) yesterday.
Ramkerrysingh reportedly said after seeking external legal advice, it was decided that returning officers will be asked to declare their party allegiance and membership before working in polling stations.
He also clarified that the disclosure would only apply to the 41 returning officers and not other persons who work for elections.
However, the Prime Minister said the vote in this country is secret and no person in public employment must be forced to reveal how he or she voted or intend to vote.
Rowley wrote: “Returning officers are not to comply with this strange and disturbing development at the EBC.”
“The PNM, which has not been consulted on this matter, is resolutely opposed to this unnecessary and possibly illegal action.”
“ Where did this come from,” he asked.