Prime Minister and PNM Leader Dr Keith Rowley says the EBC position on questioning its staff about their vote is “absolutely unacceptable”.

Yesterday at an Elections Coverage workshop hosted by the TTPBA, EBC Chairman Mark 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.

In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Dr Rowley 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.”

He said the PNM was not consulted on the matter, referring to the decision as “unnecessary” and “possibly illegal”.

He adds that “Returning officers are not to comply with this strange and disturbing development at the EBC.”