The Electoral (Local Government Elections) Regulations 2025 have introduced rigorous guidelines for candidate nominations, polling-day behavior, and vote counting, significantly enhancing the protocols for municipal elections. These new rules are designed to ensure greater integrity and transparency within the electoral process.
Under these regulations, all candidates, whether independent or tied to a political party, must comply with the eligibility criteria as outlined in the Local Government Act of 1972. They are required to submit nominations using approved forms, which must contain full personal details, voter identification numbers, a recent photograph, and a signed declaration of their eligibility and exclusivity.
Additionally, candidates are restricted from running for more than one ward or being nominated by multiple political parties. Independent candidates face extra stipulations, such as a nomination fee of $200 and a requisite statement of support signed by at least eight registered voters from their designated ward. Political parties are also mandated to submit ward-specific party lists, each accompanied by a $200 deposit per candidate.
Once the nomination period closes, the Supervisor of Elections is obligated to publish a list of accepted nominations within two days. Voters have a three-day window to object to any nominations, while candidates who are rejected can appeal the decisions to the Electoral Commission. All appeals are required to be resolved within three days, and the Commission’s ruling is deemed final.
On election day, provisions are in place for secret ballot voting, with polling hours designated from 8:30 AM until all voters present in line at 4 PM have cast their votes. Importantly, any campaigning is strictly forbidden within a 100-meter radius of polling locations during voting hours, including the display of party symbols, distribution of campaign materials, or offering incentives to voters.
Moreover, the regulations have established provisions for early voting at hospitals, nursing homes, detention facilities, and other approved venues. The ballot papers must incorporate security features, and they are to be stored securely and sealed within numbered ballot boxes.
Once polls close, vote counting commences immediately, with results documented in official records and made publicly available. Overall, these reforms aim to bolster electoral integrity, deter malpractice, and enhance public trust in the outcomes of local government elections. Such measures underscore a commitment to fostering a fairer and more accountable electoral environment.
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