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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Dominica is divided into 21 single-member constituencies.
Source: Constitution, Section 57: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - List of Constituencies: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/constituencies/constituency-boundaries-3 (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: As soon as may be after the Commission has submitted a report under subsection (1)(a) of this section, the Prime Minister shall lay before the House for its approval the draft of an order by the President for giving effect, whether with or without modifications, to the recommendations contained in the report, and that draft order may make provision for any matters that appear to the Prime Minister to be incidental to or consequential upon the other provisions of the draft.
Source: Constitution, Section 57(3)
Verified: 2011/05/31
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries e . Geographic size of district g . Other
Comments: All constituencies shall contain as nearly equal numbers of inhabitants as appears to the Constituency Boundaries Commission to be reasonably practicable but the Commission may depart from this principle to such extent as it considers expedient to take account of the following factors, that is to say:
the density of population, and in particular the need to ensure the adequate representation of sparsely populated rural areas; the means of communication; geographical features, and the boundaries of administrative areas.
Source: Constitution, Schedule 2: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - Constituency Boundaries: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/constituencies/constituency-boundaries (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
a . Total population
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/16
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . Legislature (1st chamber) d . Boundary Commission
Comments: The Electoral Boundaries Commission reviews the number and boundaries of the constituencies into which Dominica is divided and submits a report. The Prime Minister lays before the House of Assembly this report for its approval, and if approved, the Prime Minister submits it to the President who shall make an order in terms of the report.
Source: Constitution, Section 57(1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
l . Other
Comments: The Commission has to submit reports at intervals of not less than two and not more than five years.
Source: C: 57.
Verified: 2002/12/16
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
d . Indirectly elected by legislature
Comments: The President is the head of state, elected for a five-year term by the parliament.
Source: Constitution, Sections 18 - 19: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The Prime Minister is the head of government and is appointed by the President. The elected member of the House who is supported by the majority of its members remains as Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution, Section 59: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: There shall be a President of Dominica who shall be elected by the House and shall hold office for a term of five years.
Source: Constitution, Sections 18 - 28: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The Parliament is made up of the President and a House of Assembly. The House is made up of five senators appointed by the President with advice from the Prime Minister, four senators appointed by the President with advice from the leader of the opposition, an ex officio member and 21 elected members. Members serve five-year terms.
Source: Constitution, Sections 29 - 30: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The 21 elected members of the House of Assembly are elected by simple majority from 21 single-member constituencies.
Source: Constitution, Section 33: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/09
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: The House is made up of as many Representatives as the number of constituencies established for the Electoral Boundaries Commission.
Source: C: 30, 33 and 57.
Verified: 2002/12/09
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2002/12/09
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2003/01/21
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments: Members are elected in single seat constituencies.
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/09
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: Congress is unicameral.
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/09
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: Its members are elected every five years. Nevertheless, in the exercise of his powers the President can dissolve Parliament in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister. If after a dissolution of Parliament and before the holding of the general election of Representatives, the Prime Minister advises the President that, owing to the existence of a state of war or of a state of emergency in Dominica, it is necessary to recall parliament, the President summon the Parliament that has been dissolved to meet, but, unless the life of Parliament is extended, the general election of Representatives proceed and the Parliament that has been recalled if not sooner dissolved, again stand dissolved on the date appointed for the nomination of candidates in that general election.
The general election of Representatives or, where provision has been made by Parliament for the election of the Senators, a general election of Senators shall be held at such time within three months after any dissolution of Parliament as the President may appoint for that election.
Source: C: 54 and 55.
Verified: 2003/02/04
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: EL: 25.
Verified: 2002/12/09
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments: Some provisions regarding the Constituency Boundaries Commission and the Electoral Commission are embodied in the Constitution. Nevertheless, specific regulations exist on administrative provisions and procedures for elections: House of Assembly (Elections) Act and Registration of Electors Act, as well as subsidiary legislation: House of Assembly (Elections) Regulations and Registration of Electors Regulations.
Source: Dominica Elections Act No. 14 of 1951: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-elections-act-1951/view (2014).
Constitution of Dominica (1978): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - Legislation: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/legislation-2 (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
b . January 1990- December 1999
Comments: The latest version of the electoral law dates from 1951, but the most recent reforms were made in 1990.
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/13
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments: The electoral law regulates only the elections for the House of Assembly.
Source: Dominica Elections Act No. 14 of 1951: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-elections-act-1951/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/05
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 33 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Registration of Electors Act No. 13 of 1974, Section 4: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-registration-of-electors-act-1974/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - Voting Rights and Responsibilities: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/voting-2/guidelines-for-polling-day-6 (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments: No regional or local elections are held in Dominica.
Source: Electoral Office
Verified: 2002/12/13
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments: The President is elected by the parliament.
Source: C: 18.
Verified: 2002/12/13
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: A petition complaining of an undue return or an undue election of a member of the House of Assembly should be submitted to the High Court within 21 days after the return of the member to whose election the petition relates.
Source: Dominica Elections Act No. 14 of 1951, Section 65: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-elections-act-1951/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/05
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: The agency which settles formal disputes is the judiciary.
Source: EL: 65.
Verified: 2003/01/21
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates c . Voters
Comments: People who have the right to submit cases: the person who voted or had a right to vote at the election to which the petition relates; the person claiming to have had a right to be returned at the election; the person alleging himself to have been a candidate at the election.
Source: EL: 65.
Verified: 2003/01/21
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments: The Court of Appeal
Source: EL: 65
Verified: 2002/12/14
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
b . Legislative Committee
Comments: Only the Parliament has the right to initiate laws in any matter. Every proposed bill and every proposed regulation or other instrument having the force of law relating to the registration of electors for the purpose of electing Representatives or to the election of Representatives and Senators shall be referred to the Election Commission and to the Chief Elections Officer at such a time as shall give them sufficient opportunity to make comments thereon before the bill is introduced in the House or, as the case may be, the regulation or instrument is made.
Source: C: 41, 49 and Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/14
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level c . Local level
Comments: The Electoral Office has responsibility for conducting Parliamentary and Local Government Elections. The Office is managed by the Chief Elections Officer, under the direction of the Electoral Commission.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 56, 38 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - Responsibilities of the Commissions: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/about-us/brief-history (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: The Electoral Commission regulates its own procedure, and in the exercise of its functions is not to be subject to the direction or control of any person or authority. In the discharge of its functions the Commission is assisted by a Chief Elections Officer, who is a public officer.
Source: C: 56.
Verified: 2002/12/16
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: The Ministry of Finance and Planning, which manages the finances of the state in general.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 76: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Government Website - Ministry of Finance: http://dominica.gov.dm/finance (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
e . Another organ within the national government
Comments: The Director of Audit
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 83 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: A member of a Commission who has been appointed shall vacate his office either when the House first meets after the next dissolution of Parliament after his appointment [every 5 years], or if any circumstances arise that, if he were not a member of the Commission, would cause him to be disqualified for appointment as such.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 56 (5): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - The Constituency Boundaries and Electoral Commissions: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/about-us/brief-history (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
d . Presidential/ Prime Minister appointment
Comments: The President appoints the chairman of the Electoral Commission, as well as the Chief Elections Officer.
Source: C: 56.
Verified: 2002/12/16
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: The Constitution provides that in the exercise of its functions the Commission shall not be subject to the direction or control of any other person or entity.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 56 (11): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - The Constituency Boundaries and Electoral Commissions: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/about-us/brief-history (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: 5 members: The Electoral Commission shall consist of a chairman appointed by the President acting in his own deliberate judgment, two members appointed by the President acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister, and two members appointed by the President acting in accordance with the advice of the leader of the opposition.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 56 (3): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - The Constituency Boundaries and Electoral Commissions: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/about-us/brief-history (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
e . No Information Available
Comments: The selection criteria are not specified in the law. The Constitution only states that a person shall not be qualified to be appointed as a member of a Commission if he is a member of the house of Assembly or a public officer.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 56 (4): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State b . Head of Government d . Opposition
Comments: The Electoral Commission shall consist of a chairman appointed by the President acting in his own deliberate judgment, two members appointed by the President acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister, and two members appointed by the President acting in accordance with the advice of the leader of the opposition.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 56 (3): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - The Constituency Boundaries and Electoral Commissions: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/about-us/brief-history (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Electoral Office of Dominica has information available on its website and conducts information campaigns after the announcement of an election.
Source: Dominica Elections Commission
http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/?page_id=10
Verified: 2014/12/16
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: Every year, the Electoral Office organizes voter education programs, skits on radio and television, newspaper ads and lectures in various communities.
Source: Dominica Elections Commission
http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/?page_id=10
Verified: 2014/12/16
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments:
Source: Dominica Elections Commission
http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/?page_id=10
Verified: 2014/12/16
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement
Comments: Posters outlining ãHow to voteä are published throughout the state. Radio and television programs outlining ãVoting proceduresä, skits on both television and radio, publications in local newspapers on ãVoting proceduresä, role of election official agents, etc. These activities commence with the issuance of the writ until polling day.
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/16
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/16
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
b . Young people/ first time voters
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/16
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 33 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Registration of Electors Act No. 13 of 1974, Section 5 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-registration-of-electors-act-1974/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - Who Can Register to Vote?: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/registration-2/regulations-pertaining-to-the-registration-of-electors-5(2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship b . Period of Residence e . Other
Comments: A person is qualified to be registered as an elector for a polling district if he/she: is a citizen of the Commonwealth of Dominica or is a citizen of member states of the Commonwealth of Nations who has resided in Dominica for a period of twelve (12) months immediately before the qualifying date; and is eighteen (18) years of age or over; has resided in that polling district for a continuous period of at least three months immediately preceding the date of registration. The residence qualification does not apply to persons who have attained the age of eighteen years within the period of three months immediately preceding the date of registration.
Source: Constitution of Dominica (1978), Section 33 (2): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Registration of Electors Act No. 13 of 1974, Section 5 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-registration-of-electors-act-1974/view (2014).
Electoral Office of Dominica, Official Website - Who Can Register to Vote?: http://electoraloffice.gov.dm/registration-2/regulations-pertaining-to-the-registration-of-electors-5(2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration d . Mental disability h . Other
Comments: A person is disqualified from being registered as an elector if he is suffering from mental illness or mental defectiveness; if he is undergoing any sentence of imprisonment in Dominica; and if he is condemned to death by any court of the Commonwealth or if he was given a more than twelve-year sentence. Also, upon conviction for Election Officers.
Source: REA: 6 and 61.
Verified: 2002/12/10
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: The Electoral Commission shall be responsible for the registration of voters for the purpose of electing representatives and for the conduct of elections of Representatives and Senators and shall have such powers and other functions relating to such registration and elections as may be prescribed by law.
Source: Constitution Art. 38 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Registration of Electors Act No. 13 of 1974, Section 10 (1): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-registration-of-electors-act-1974/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
c . No registration required
Comments:
Source: REA: 11.
Verified: 2014/12/16
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
b . Annually
Comments: Every year, the Chief Registering Officer makes all additions and removals to the appropriate electoral lists and publishes November 30th the corrected annual lists as the revised annual lists of electors.
The list of electors for each polling district are made up of all persons whose names appeared on the register for another polling district and who have notified the Chief Registering Officer of a change of address, and who appear to be ordinarily residing in the new polling district; whose names appeared in the register for the polling district who have effected a change of address within the polling district and have notified the Chief Registering Officer thereof; who have reached the age of eighteen years and who appear to the Chief Registering Officer to be otherwise qualified; and such lists shall include the names of all persons who will be eighteen years of age before the election day.
Source: REA: 12 and 15.
Verified: 2002/12/10
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
e . Appearance by voter at registration office
Comments:
Source: REA: 8.
Verified: 2002/12/10
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Every person who is registered as aforesaid in any constituency shall, unless he is disqualified by Parliament from voting in that constituency in any election of Representative, be entitled so to vote, in accordance with the provisions of any law in that behalf, and no other person may so vote.
Neither registration or voting is compulsory in Dominica.
Source: Constitution of Dominica, Art. 33: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DM/dominica-constitution-of-the-commonwealth-of/view (2014).
Verified: 2014/12/16
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: The electoral law does not contemplate the registration of political parties, but candidates registration.
Source: EL: 15.
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence j . Other
Comments: The qualifications for becoming a representative are: to be a citizen of Dominica of at least 21 years old; to have resided in Dominica for a period of twelve months immediately prior to the date of his nomination for the election or to be domiciled and resident in Dominica at that date; and to be able to speak and, unless visually or physically impaired, to read the English language with a degree of proficiency sufficient to enable him to take an active part in the proceedings of the House. The qualifications for senators are the same that for the representatives.
Source: C: 31.
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
k . No information available
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: C: 30.
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments: The president is elected by the House of Assembly. Nevertheless, a person is qualified to be nominated as President if he is a citizen of Dominica of forty years of age or upwards, who at the date of his nomination has been resident in Dominica for five years immediately preceding his nomination. For the purposes of residence, a person reside in Dominica if he holds an office in the service of the Government, or is employed with any intergovernmental organization or institution of the Commonwealth Caribbean or any International organization or institution of which Dominica is a member and lives outside Dominica because he is required to do so for the proper discharge of his functions.
Source: C: 20.
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration g . Holding of government office h . Bankruptcy or Insolvency o . Other
Comments: A person is not qualified to be Representative or Senator if he is under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state; he is a minister of religion; he is in bankrupt; he has been sentenced by any court of law of the Commonwealth or is serving a sentence of imprisonment; if he has certain government contractors and if she holds or is acting in the office of President.
Source: C: 32.
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
o . Not applicable
Comments: The president is elected by the House of Assembly. Nevertheless, a person is not qualified to be elected as President if he has already held the office of President for two terms; if he is under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state; he is a minister of religion; he is in bankrupt; he has been sentenced by any court of law of the Commonwealth or is serving a sentence of imprisonment; if he has certain government contractors; if he holds or is acting in the office of President, and if he holds any other office or emolument whether in the public service or otherwise nor engage in any other occupation for reward.
Source: C: 21 and 32.
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments:
Source: EL: 15.
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: Every candidate for election must be nominated in writing by not less than six registered electors of the constituency for which he seeks to be elected; must consent in writing to the nomination; every candidate shall at the time of his nomination deliver or cause to be delivered to the returning officer a statutory declaration of his qualifications made and subscribed by the candidate, every candidate at the time of his nomination deposit, or cause to be deposited with the returning officer five hundred Caribbean dollars in cash (US$ 184) which will be reimbursed if the candidate obtains at least 1/8 of the valid votes cast in the constituency.
Source: EL: 15.
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments: There are no provisions in the law regarding the regulation of parties funding.
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Verified: 2006/11/15
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
d . Not Applicable
Comments: Political parties do not receive direct/indirect public funding.
Source:
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Political parties do not receive indirect public funding.
Source:
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
f . No information available
Comments: Political parties do not receive public funding.
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Verified: 2006/11/15
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: There are no provisions in the law regarding the regulation of parties funding.
Source:
Verified: 2003/01/21
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: No provisions in law in this matter.
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/16
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: No provisions in law.
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/16
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) d . Categorical (only one mark allowed) o . Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official r . Other
Comments: Ballots contain the names, addresses and occupations of the candidates alphabetically arranged in the order of their surnames and numbered accordingly to be printed exactly as they are set out in their respective nomination papers. Opposite to the name of each candidature there is a prescribed symbol. The ballot papers shall have a counterfoil and a stub, and there shall be a line of perforations between the ballot and the counterfoil and between the counterfoil and the stub. The ballot papers are numbered on the top of the stub and the counterfoil, the same number being printed or written on the stub as on the counterfoil. Each elector receives from the presiding officer a ballot paper on which such officer has previously put his initials.
Source: EL: 21 and 34.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments: The president is elected by the House of Assembly.
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Forthwith upon the close of the poll, in the presence and in full view of the poll clerk and the candidates or their agents, and if the candidates or any of them are absent, then in the presence of such as are present, and of at least two electors if none of the candidates is represented, the presiding officer counts the number of votes.
Source: EL: 39.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
c . Tally of voters who voted e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) l . Counted by hand t . Other
Comments:
Source: EL: 39.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
c . District level
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
b . District level
Comments: The House is made up of as many Representatives as the number of constituencies established by the Electoral Boundaries Commission.
Source: C: 30, 33, 34 and 57.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported
Comments: Following the counting the presiding officer transmit or deliver to the returning officer, under police escort, the ballot box; the envelope containing the key thereof; and the preliminary statement of the poll, in such manner as the Chief Elections Officer may direct.
Source: EL: 39.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
a . Ballots b . Unused and spoiled ballots f . Certificate of result g . Ballot boxes
Comments: ballots counted and unused, spoiled and rejected ballots are locked and sealed in the ballot boxes, before being transported to the Returning Officers.
Source: EL: 39.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
c . Signatures on sealed envelopes d . Transported in boxes sealed with numbered seals j . Other
Comments: The envelope with the preliminary results are sealed and signed by election officials, candidates and agents. Ballot box is locked and sealed (officials, candidates and agents sign seals before they are affixed to the ballot box). The presiding officer is in the possession of the results and the ballot box until he/she hands it personally to the returning officer.
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
b . Always recounted
Comments: After the ballot boxes have been received by the returning officer, they are opened at the place, date and time specified for the final count of the votes, and in the presence of the candidates or their representatives. The returning officer, as soon as he has ascertained the result of the poll, forthwith publicly declares the result and announces the candidate to whom most votes have been given to be elected as the member of the constituency.
Source: EL: 41 and 43.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
c . Legislative formula or regulation
Comments:
Source: EL: 41 and 43.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
i . Other
Comments: The returning officer makes the final count of the votes.
Source: EL: 41.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: No provision in law regarding preliminary results. However, the Chief Elections Officer arranges for a live broadcast on the preliminary results, as this are received via telephone, from the returning officers. The media is given specific guidelines for that purpose.
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The returning officer as soon as he has ascertained the result of the poll, forthwith publicly declares the result and announces the candidate to whom most votes have been given to be elected as the member of the constituency. The returning officer, within seven days next following that upon which he has made the final count of or ascertained the number of votes given for each candidate, shall deliver personally or transmit by registered post to the Chief Elections Officer: the writ with his return endorsed thereon that the candidate having the majority of votes has been elected; a report of his proceedings; the recapitulation sheets; the statements of the polls; and all other documentation used for the election.
The returning officer shall forward to each of the candidates a duplicate or copy of the return to the writ he made. The Chief Elections Officer receiving the return of any member elected to serve in the House of Assembly, transmits the writ with the return endorsed thereon to the President and enters the writ in the order in which he receives the return, in a book to be kept by him for such purpose and thereupon immediately gives notice in the Gazette of the name of the candidate so elected and in the order in which it was received.
Then, the Chief Elections Officer as soon as practicable after each general election, causes to be printed a report giving for each polling district the number of votes polled for each candidate, the number of rejected ballots, the number of names on the lists of electors, together with any other information that he may think fit to include; and shall also, at the end of each year, cause to be printed a similar report on the by-elections held during the year.
Source: EL: 43.
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: One day. The returning officer as soon as he has ascertained the result of the poll, forthwith publicly declares the result and announces the candidate to whom most votes have been given to be elected as the member for the constituency.
Source: EL: 43.
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
h . No information available
Comments: There is no free allocation of free broadcast time or free printed advertisement space to political parties.
Source: International IDEA (2003) "Funding of Political Parties and Election Campaigns"
Verified: 2007/01/17
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
a . Constitutional changes only
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2009/10/22
Voting Operations
VO001
Question: Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
Answer:
e . 51-60%
Comments: Data non available.
Source:
Verified: 2002/12/16
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/16
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Comments:
Source: EL: 22 and 27.
Verified: 2012/02/24
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: Outside the country voting is not permitted.
Source:
Verified: 2012/02/24
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/17
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments: Electors can not vote in advance of the designated natioal election day(s).
Source:
Verified: 2003/01/21
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments: Electors can not vote in advance of the designated natioal election day(s).
Source:
Verified: 2003/01/21
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Elections Office.
Verified: 2002/12/17
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: EL: 34.
Verified: 2012/02/24
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: One presiding officer, one poll clerk and one assistant poll clerk.
The largest polling station: One presiding officer, one poll clerk and one assistant poll clerk.
Average per polling station:
Source
C: 38.
Verified
2009/07/05
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