Election petitions

This week we consider the manner as well as circumstances under which an election result may be challenged. As a point of departure, any election result may be challenged by a candidate for the constituency and by a voter in the concerned constituency. This specifically excludes meddlesome interlopers.

A petition may be brought where one contests the election result or alleges that a candidate is disqualified to be a candidate. Petitions against the election of a candidate or based on a disqualification are only triable before the High Court.

A petition may be brought by one person or several persons jointly. The law requires that when one seeks to bring a petition they must give all other candidates an opportunity to be a part of the petition before lodging it. The petition must be signed by the petitioner or where there is more than one petitioner by all the petitioners. This is to avoid having several petitions on the same matter regarding the same constituency.  The democratic process must not be held hostage by a flood of discordant actions. It must be emphasised that a petition can only be brought before the High Court.

Editor's Comment
Stakeholders must step up veggie supply

The Ministry of Agriculture, local producers, retailers, and industry associations must work together to overcome the obstacles hindering vegetable production and distribution.This collaborative approach is essential to improve the availability, quality, and affordability of vegetables in the market.Firstly, the Ministry of Agriculture should provide support and guidance to local farmers to enhance their productivity and efficiency. This could...

Have a Story? Send Us a tip
arrow up