Walker Pledges to Work to Improve Electoral System

Director of Elections, Danville Walker, has pledged to work to improve the electoral system and to continue the trend of peaceful elections in the island since 1997.

“Since 1997, we’ve had peaceful elections every time we have had to go to elections and over 90 per cent of polling stations were ready to open by
7:00 a.m.,” he noted.

“I am proud to be Director of Elections in a country that has such a rich electoral history,” Mr. Walker said shortly after being presented with the instruments of appointment by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Professor Kenneth Hall on Wednesday (April 18) at King’s House.

The Governor-General congratulated Mr. Walker on his appointment, which is the third time since 1997.
He noted that the country has confidence in Mr. Walker’s ability based on his past performance, and charged the Director to continue to carry out his duties with the same “excellence or standard for which he has become well known.”

“The Director of Elections holds an important position, of having the responsibility to guide the electoral process while building on the achievements that have been made, and ensuring that voters experience elections that are well-run, free and fair,” Professor Hall stated.

He further expressed confidence in the ability of the Electoral Commission to safeguard the democratic rights of citizens and urged Jamaicans to exercise their right to vote. “It is without a doubt that given the calibre, intellect and commitment of the professionals, who serve on the Electoral Commission, there should be further strengthening and safeguarding of the constitutional democratic electoral processes in Jamaica,” Professor Hall stated.

Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Professor Errol Miller, also commended Mr. Walker for his integrity and brilliance, noting that his work has brought him recognition not only locally but regionally and internationally. Describing him as “an asset to our country”, Professor Miller said that Mr. Walker “has helped to improve the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.”

Mr. Walker has served for 10 years as Director of Elections and will be in the post for another seven years.
The function was attended by Minister of National Security and Minister with responsibility for Electoral Matters, Dr. Peter Phillips; Opposition Spokesman on Electoral Matters, Senator Anthony Johnson; President of the National Democratic Movement, Earl DeLisser and members of the Electoral Commission.