NABTEB Government 2022 Theory — Question 2

Model answer

- Neutrality: the electoral body should be truly neutral in its operations. - Every stakeholder should be involved in all the electoral processes. - Up-to-date voters register: the electoral body should compile a credible and updated voters' register. - Adequate provision of election materials: adequate provision should be made for election materials in order to conduct free, fair and credible elections. - Training: adequate training should be given to electoral officers before election day so as to discharge their duty effectively. - Provision of transparent ballot boxes to discourage electoral malpractice. - Government should ensure adequate security at polling stations to curb intimidation of voters by political thugs. - The electoral body should undertake regular and effective voter education to sensitize the people on the need to exercise their franchise. - Electoral umpire should adopt open counting of ballots at polling booths/units/centres for fairness and to curb manipulation of votes. - Avoidance of gerrymandering: constituencies should be delineated evenly and should not be drawn to favour a political party. - Prompt declaration of election results, which would discourage politicians from manipulating votes. - Quick and impartial resolution of electoral disputes: an aggrieved party should be given prompt and impartial attention after the polls. - Adoption of transparent collation of results in the presence of party agents. - Enactment of satisfactory electoral laws which should be fair and accepted by all parties involved. - Appointment of electoral officials must be based on merit. - Adequate remuneration for electoral officers so they are not tempted to accept bribes. - Gradual adoption of electronic voting process, alongside a free, fair and credible option, should be considered. - Electoral body should ensure effective distribution of electoral materials across the country. - Effective funding by the state: government should adequately fund the electoral body as and when due.