The Progressive People’s Party has outlined a number of measures the Electoral Commission and other stakeholders can adopt to make the District Level Elections more effective and participatory.
In a statement, the party bemoaned the low level of participation and enthusiasm that characterize the local-level elections, arguing their unfavourable effect on the county’s democracy.
“The voter turnout for these elections hasn’t been so great in the past. In fact, the numbers show that not many people have been showing up to vote. And that’s not good for our democracy”, the statement read.
PPP asked the EC to increase the number of centers for the upcoming registration exercise slated for September 12 to October 2, 2023, to cater for people living in remote locations.
According to the party, enthusiasm and active participation can only be generated for the District Level Elections if the EC works collaboratively with the National Commission on Civic Education and political parties to educate the masses on the importance of the election.
“We also want the Electoral Commission to work with other organizations, like the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and political parties, to educate and engage the public about the importance of these elections. We want everyone to understand why it’s so crucial to vote and be a part of our democracy.”
The party particularly urged the EC to supply a fixed date for the District Level Elections as has been done for the general elections to aid planning, preparation, and participation of all interested parties, including voters.
“Let’s have a fixed date for the District Level Elections, just like we do for the Presidential and Parliamentary Elections. Right now, the dates for these elections keep changing, and that makes it hard for candidates and voters to plan ahead. If we have a set date, it will make things a lot easier and more organized” the statement noted.
