Electoral Commission Issues Media Rules for Coverage of St. Philip By-Election
The Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission has issued media guidelines governing coverage and political advertising ahead of the St. Philip by-election scheduled for March 16, 2026.
The rules, issued under the Representation of the People Act, are intended to ensure political parties and candidates receive fair access to media platforms during the campaign period.
According to the commission, radio and television stations operating in Antigua and Barbuda must not prevent any political party or nominated candidate from broadcasting material promoting their candidacy in the by-election.
The guidelines also state that print media outlets must not block or refuse to publish campaign material intended to promote a candidate contesting the St. Philip seat.
Media organizations are further instructed not to alter or distort campaign material submitted for broadcast or publication.
In addition, the commission says radio and television stations must charge no more than their normal hourly advertising rate for campaign material, a measure intended to ensure candidates are able to access airtime at affordable rates.
The commission warned that any radio station, television station, print media outlet or staff member who violates the rules commits an offence.
Those found guilty on summary conviction could face a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both.
The St. Philip by-election is scheduled to take place on March 16, 2026.
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