The Electoral Commission has categorically denied any incidents of BVD theft and clarified concerns surrounding the security of the Biometric Verification Devices (BVDs).
This followed an internal memo titled “RETURN OF BIOMETRIC VERIFICATION DEVICES” circulating on social media platforms and signed by the Deputy Chairman of Operations following the 2023 District Level Elections (DLE).
The Memo sparked rumours and speculation regarding the theft and security of BVDs used in the electoral process.
The Commission, in a statement signed by Michael Boaud, Acting head of Public Affairs and addressing the situation indicated the alarm had arisen from misinterpretations of the memo, which was only intended for asset reconciliation purposes.
According to him, the only theft reported at the EC was that of five laptops, which are separate from the BVDs and cannot impact election integrity or outcomes.
The circulated memo, the Commission explained, was a routine communication aimed at ensuring the accountability and safe return of all electoral equipment, including BVDs, back to the Commission’s custody.
The EC emphasized, “No Compromise to Electoral Integrity: The BVDs, integral to our electoral process, are designed with sophisticated security features. Without the proper activation and official use within our electoral framework, these devices are essentially inoperative.”
The Commission also addressed concerns regarding the potential misuse of equipment, reassuring the public that due to advanced security protocols and activation requirements, any misplaced or even vandalized equipment cannot be utilized to undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The statement urged the public and all stakeholders to prioritize accuracy and responsibility in information dissemination regarding the Commission.
“Unverified speculations serve only to undermine public trust and the integrity of our democratic processes,” the statement read.
The Electoral Commission reiterated its dedication to delivering transparent, free, and fair elections, continuing to uphold the highest standards of integrity in its operations and committed to protecting the sanctity of the electoral process.