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July 21.2025
2 Minutes Read

Polling Cards Gone Astray: What it Means for Wyesham Voters

Person voting, placing card in ballot box, warm polling station.

Lost Polling Cards Raise Concerns Ahead of Wyesham By-Election

In the anticipation of Thursday's by-election for the Wyesham Ward in Monmouth, local voters are facing anxiety as polling cards critical for their participation have gone missing. Despite being mailed on June 30, these essential cards informing voters of their polling number and location have yet to arrive, leading to confusion in the community.

Independent candidate Jem Jenkins-Jones reached out to the Monmouthshire Beacon, expressing her frustration. "Although registered postal voters have received their ballots, many regular voters are still waiting for their polling cards just two days before the election," she emphasized.

The County Council's Response

The Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) acknowledged the situation, noting that the cards had been dispatched as usual. However, they are now investigating the unusual delay that has prevented voters from receiving the information they require to cast their ballots. An MCC spokesperson stated, "We will try to find out what has happened, but it only became evident over the weekend that the cards hadn’t reached voters." This acknowledgment signals a potential breakdown in the communication chain, further complicating the voting process.

A Call to Action for the Community

With just days left before the election, the situation underscores the importance of community awareness and voter engagement. Jenkins-Jones is not alone in her efforts; other candidates, including Xavier Turner of the Local Conservatives and Robert Kavanagh of Reform, are also awaiting developments. It is crucial for voters in the Wyesham Ward to stay informed about their polling rights and ensure that they can participate in the upcoming election.

This incident raises broader questions about the efficiency of electoral processes and the communication systems in place for local elections. As the community gears up for what should be a routine democratic exercise, the absence of polling cards serves as a reminder of how vital reliable information is for ensuring that every eligible voter can exercise their right to vote.

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