Consolidating results in list systems can be very
simple and straightforward or highly complicated, depending on the system and
the legal framework.
In some cases, it is sufficient to count the votes
once, either in the voting station or in a counting centre, but in other cases
a recount can be necessary. In such cases, the first count is normally in the
voting station and the recount in a counting centre.
In closed list systems, with no possibility for, for instance
preferential or cumulating votes, and just one list per party, one count is
normally sufficient. The numbers per list are added up per electoral district,
and the seats are allocated to candidates according to list order.
In more complex systems, when a party has more than
one list per electoral district, or when the voter may cross out, add
candidates, or make preferential marks, or cumulate, the counting and
consolidating of the results are more complicated.
The exact number of votes for each list and candidate,
including cross-outs, or additions, must be determined before implementing the
electoral formula for allocating seats to parties and candidates. A common
procedure in such systems is a preliminary count per party in the voting
stations at the close of voting, and a recount later in counting centres at the
electoral district or regional level.
In some systems a final compilation of the results
must be carried out at national level, for example, to allocate national
"equalizing" seats.
The more complex a system, and the more complicated
the electoral formulas to be implemented, the more crucial transparency of the
count is. Count sheets, reports from the count, and compilations must be clear,
comprehensive, complete, and designed in such a way that the entire process can
be followed and supervised by the political parties and the electorate.
All
relevant information must be published without delay. However, it is essential
to make realistic plans for the last phase of the electoral process, and not
create exaggerated expectations when it comes to the time of announcement of
the final results.
When election
authorities publish the final results, instructions on how to appeal and object
to the results must be included in the announcement.
