The preliminary report from a team of election observers from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association says parts of the legal framework need a review.
The report states: “The electoral legal framework provides a solid foundation for the conduct of democratic elections and reflects fundamental democratic principles.
“Amendments adopted ahead of the election introduced declarations of candidates’ relevant interests, changes to the handling of postal votes, and provisions for official pre-election meetings.”
But it adds: “However, aspects of the legal framework would benefit from a review to ensure that it remains aligned with developments in electoral administration and campaigning.”
It expands on the issue later in the preliminary report, which will be followed by a more detailed publication.
“The Elections Act and the Regulations offer little guidance on election campaigns, including in traditional and social media; regulation of election administration does not appear to contemplate its open recruitment.
“In the Mission’s interviews, several stakeholders questioned the extent to which the current electoral legal framework is fit for purpose.”
A team of observers, from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, was in the island for the final 10 days of the election run-in and had earlier described the running of it as “professional and transparent”.
You can read the full preliminary statement here:
