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WEEK 3
TOPIC: ELECTORAL PROCESS (3) – Organization of Elections
CONTENT:
(a) Features of Free and Fair Election
(b) The Stages of Election
Sub-Topic 1: FEATURES OF FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS
Free and fair election is a necessary condition for a democratic government. A free and fair election refers to one conducted in an atmosphere devoid of harassment, intimidation and other coercive means in order to bend the will of voters and according to constitutional procedure. It produces legitimate government.
The features are as follows:
- Fair Delimitation of Constituencies: The country should be divided into constituencies in such a way that the electorates are fairly represented. Equal constituencies should return equal number of representatives.
- Independent and Impartial electoral Commission: There should be in existence an independent electoral commission established by the constitution. The commission should be free from government intervention in the conduct of elections. The commission should be non–partisan and should also inspire the confidence of the people.
- Regular Election: election should be held at periodic and regular intervals. The periodic intervals vary from country to country. However, a four or five year interval is the normal period for elections. That of Nigeria is a – four year interval for the presidency, national and state assemblies, and governorship (gubernatorial) elections.
- Periodic Revision of Voters’ Register: The voters’ register should be constantly revised to ensure that all qualified candidates are included. The commission should make proper arrangement to compile the names of eligible voters.
- Secret Ballots: Voting at election should be by secret ballot to enable voters vote for their candidates without fear of molestation or victimization. Open ballot is undemocratic as it does not allow voters to express their real mind.
- Impartial Law Enforcement Officers: law enforcement should be impartial. They should give equal treatment to all candidates and political parties involved in the election.
- Equality of Votes: The votes cast by different voters should be equal in value. Free and fair elections also demand the principle of ‘one man, one vote’.
- Public Counting and Declaration of Results: The counting of votes after election must be done immediately, publicly and immediately after counting, the result should be announced.
- Opportunity for Petition: The electoral law must provide opportunity for candidates who are not satisfied with the conduct and result of the elections to challenge them in an election tribunal and should be able to appeal against tribunal or lower court decisions.
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