CAFFE seeking election observers

 

As the political temperature heats up, watchdog group Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE) is appealing to Jamaicans to volunteer as observers in the upcoming general election.

 

CAFFE Chairman Grace Baston says at least 1000 people are needed. Ms. Baston says so far, over 300 people have signed up.

 

Noting that CAFFE would be happy with at least one volunteer in each polling station, the organisation emphasized its goal of placing at least one volunteer in targeted locations.

 

"We are looking at 22 constituencies that we think could swing, in particular, and we want to make sure that we have volunteers in those places, because obviously that's where the temptation to malpractice will be stronger. Well, we think so. So we want to make sure we are present in each of those locations," the CAFFE chairman noted. 

 

"So I'm appealing for citizens - old, young, mature - to come forward. Our democracy is precious, it's hard earned, it's ours; it's something we should be as proud of as the accomplishments of our athletes and musicians. It's one of the oldest, the business of our attaining adult suffrage, being the first predominantly black nation in the world to that. I cannot say it loud enough or often enough, but democracy is hard work, it requires us to step up and participate. So please join us as we set out to ensure that our elections are free, fair and free from fear," Ms. Baston pleaded. 

 

She said volunteers will receive a stipend of $7,000 to assist with expenses incurred throughout the day.