UDP Challenges Election and Boundaries Commission Over Ballot Controversy

The legal team representing Leader of the Opposition Moses “Shyne” Barrow and key members of the United Democratic Party (UDP) has formally written to the Election and Boundaries Commission (EBC), demanding a public clarification regarding recent reports about ballot designations for the upcoming 2025 general elections.

The letter, dated February 10, 2025, was sent by attorney Christopher P. Malcolm on behalf of Barrow, Chairman Michael Peyrefitte, Shary Medina, and other senior party members. It challenges claims made in a Hot Off the Press article, which suggested that the EBC had recognised two factions of the UDP and would allow both to use the traditional red party colour on official ballots. The report framed this as a victory for Tracy Taegar Panton, whom Barrow’s camp has contested as an illegitimate claimant to UDP leadership.

According to Malcolm, such a decision would be beyond the constitutional powers of the EBC and could influence ongoing court proceedings. He reminded the Commission that the High Court is set to rule on Panton’s UDP membership status on March 31, 2025, and urged the EBC to refrain from interfering in the party’s internal dispute.

While Malcolm noted that he does not believe the EBC has taken the actions described in the article, he called for an immediate public clarification to avoid misleading the public and maintain confidence in the electoral process. He warned that allowing misinformation to spread could undermine democracy and bring the EBC into disrepute.

The UDP legal team has requested a response from the Commission without delay. The issue underscores the high political stakes surrounding the upcoming elections and the internal divisions within the UDP.