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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: 33. (1) For the purpose of the election of Representatives, Saint Vincent shall, in accordance with the provisions of this section, be divided into thirteen constituencies having such boundaries as may be prescribed by order made by the Constituency Boundaries Commission.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979: Section 33(1)
Verified: 2021/12/26
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
b . The Boundaries Commission
Comments: To the extent that any law enacted by Parliament amends subsection (1) of this section so as to alter the number of constituencies into which Saint Vincent is divided it shall come into effect when the order of the Commission that, in accordance with the provisions of subsection (4) of this section, is consequential thereon comes into effect.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979: Section 33(7).
Verified: 2021/12/26
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population g . Other
Comments: All constituencies should 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 in order to take account of the following factors:
a. the density of population and in particular the need to ensure adequate representation of adequate representation of sparsely populated rural areas;
b. the means of communication;
c. geographical features; and
d. the boundaries of existing administrative areas.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979: Section 33(2)
Verified: 2021/12/26
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
a . Total population
Comments: According to the results of the latest census of population.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979: Section 33(8).
Verified: 2021/12/26
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
d . Boundary Commission
Comments: The Boundaries Commission is composed of three members, all appointed by the Governor General: the chairman appointed on his own deliberate judgement: one member acting in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister, and one member acting in accordance with the advice of the leader of the opposition.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979: Section 33(1)and (4)
Verified: 2021/12/26
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
l . Other
Comments: The Commission of Boundaries is appointed in the following circumstances: whenever a census of the population of Saint Vincent has been held; whenever Parliament has amended the constitution to alter the number of the constituencies into which Saint Vincent is divided; on the expiry of eight years after the Commission last reviewed the boundaries of the constituencies. Whenever the Commission has been appointed, within the period of two years commencing with its appointment, it should carry out a review of the boundaries.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979: Section 33(3)
Verified: 2021/12/26
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
f . Inherited monarchy with a Governor appointed by the Monarch
Comments: There shall be a Governor-General of Saint Vincent who shall be appointed by Her Majesty and shall hold office during Her Majesty's pleasure and who shall be Her Majesty's representative in Saint Vincent.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, art. 19 & 50
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The Prime Minister is appointed by the Governor General. Whenever the Governor General has occasion to appoint a Prime Minister he shall appoint a Representative who appears to him likely to command the support of the majority of the Representatives.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, art, 51
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The executive authority is vested on Her Majesty, exercised on her behalf by the Governor General.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, art. 19 & 50
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The Parliament of St Vincent and the Grenadines consists of Her Majesty and the House of Assembly. In addition to the directly elected members of the House, there are also 6 senators, (4 appointed by the Governor-General, in accordance with the advice of the Prime Minister; and 2 appointed by the Governor-General in accordance with the advice of the leader of the opposition).
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, art. 23-24 & 28
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments:
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, art. 24 & 27
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: The Congress is unicameral. Even though there exists the figure of senators, they form part of the House of Assembly.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 24.
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: For the elections of most of the members of the House of Assembly, the country is divided in single members constituencies.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, articles 24 and 33.
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: The Congress is unicameral.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 24.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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:
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 24.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: The representatives are elected in single member constituencies.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 24 and 33.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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 is unicameral.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 24.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/26
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:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: The Governor-General may at any time prorogue or dissolve Parliament. Unless sooner dissolved, Parliament continue for five years from the date of the first sitting of the House after any dissolution. Elections should be called by the Governor General.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 48 and 49.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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 is unicameral.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 24.
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/26
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/26
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 basic provisions about the electoral regime are embodied in the Constitution, but a separate and specific legislation details aspects related to the preparation, organization and running of elections. (The Representation of the People Act, cited for the purposes of this document as RPA).
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, art 27, 32-34, Representation of the People Act
Verified: 2021/12/26
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
c . January 1980- December1989
Comments: The current legislation for elections of the House of Assembly (The Representation of the People Act), was enacted in December 1982.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/26
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections
Comments: The Representation of the People Act regulates only the elections for the House of Assembly. No other type of elections (regional or local) are held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/26
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Subject to the provisions of this Act or of any written law imposing any disqualification for registration as a voter, every person, who has attained the age of eighteen years or upwards, shall be entitled to be registered as a voter in a constituency for the purpose of electing a representative for that constituency if, on the qualifying date.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, art. 5: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: There are no regional or local elections.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, and Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: Any petition complaining of an undue return or undue election of a member of the House of Assembly should be submitted to the Supreme Court.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, art. 57 -59.
Verified: 2021/12/26
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: The judiciary is the agency which settles formal disputes.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 57.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: The following individuals have the right to submit election petitions to the Court: 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: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 57.
Verified: 2021/12/26
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
c . Superior Court
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, articles 57 and 59.
Verified: 2021/12/26
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
b . Legislative Committee
Comments: Only Parliament may make laws.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 37.
Verified: 2021/12/26
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level
Comments: The Supervisor of Elections is responsible to exercise the general supervision over the registration of voters in elections of Representatives and over the conduct of such elections. The Supervisor of elections is appointed by the Public Service Commission in consultation with the Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 34.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 25.
Verified: 2021/12/27
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: The Public Service Commission.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 34.
Verified: 2021/12/27
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: Ministry of Finance allocates funds for the Elections Office.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, PART III.
Verified: 2021/12/27
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: All expenses properly incurred by and all remuneration and travelling allowances payable to election officers shall be paid out of monies voted for the purpose by the House of Assembly.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 69.
Verified: 2021/12/27
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
c . For an unspecified period
Comments:
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 34.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 25.
Verified: 2021/12/27
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
e . Governmental appointment
Comments: The Supervisor of Elections is appointed by the Public Service Commission in consultation with the Prime Minister.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 34.
Verified: 2021/12/27
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
c . Mixed
Comments: While there is government control at the level of finances, terms and conditions of employment and the other routine administrative matters; the electoral Office is legally an independent body as it relates to the conduct of elections to the House of Assembly.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979 and St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The EMB is composed of the "election officer": the Supervisor of Elections, Deputy Supervisor of Elections, returning officer, presiding officer, registering officer and any other officer duly authorised to perform any function relating to the registration of voters, the proceedings on polling day or the counting of the votes.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, ARTICLE 2
Verified: 2021/12/27
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
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:
Source: Electoral Office's website has some basic voter education information available. http://www.caribbeanelections.com/vc/education/default.asp
Verified: 2021/12/27
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments:
Source: Electoral Office's website has some basic voter education information available. http://www.caribbeanelections.com/vc/education/default.asp
Verified: 2021/12/27
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
a . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
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 g . Internet
Comments:
Source: http://www.caribbeanelections.com/vc/education/default.asp
Verified: 2021/12/27
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
b . Young people/ first time voters c . Women
Comments:
Source: http://www.caribbeanelections.com/vc/education/women.asp
Verified: 2021/12/27
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, Art 27(2)
Verified: 2021/12/27
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
Comments: A person is qualified to be registered as an elector for a polling district if he is a citizen of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; if he is a Commonwealth citizen who has resided in San Vincent for a period not less than twelve months immediately prior to the qualifying date; and in either case has resided in that constituency for a period of not less than six months immediately preceding the qualifying date.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, Art 27(2)
Verified: 2021/12/27
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 is found or declared to be a person of unsound mind or a patient in any establishment maintained wholly or mainly for the reception and treatment of persons suffering from mental illness or mental defectiveness; is undergoing any sentence of imprisonment in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; is under sentence of death imposed on him by a competent court in any part of the Commonwealth or under sentence of imprisonment exceeding twelve months imposed on him by such a court or under some sentence substituted therefore by a competent authority and has not suffered the punishment to which he was sentenced or has not received a free pardon; or is under any law disqualified from being registered as a voter.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 6: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
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 Supervisor of Elections exercise general supervision over the registration of voters
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, article 34: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/St_Vincent_and_the_Grenadines_1979.pdf?lang=en
St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 15: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 5: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
e . Other
Comments: The voter register at distrital level is updated quarterly. The voter register at national level is published every year by the Supervisor of Elections.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 8 and 11: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
e . Appearance by voter at registration office f . Door-to-door registration campaign
Comments: Every person who is qualified to be registered as a voter for a constituency shall, unless registered in the register of voters for that constituency, within thirty days of the relevant day, apply to the registering officer for that constituency to have his name entered in the quarterly list of voters prepared for that constituency.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 8 and 17: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Only in order to be able to exercise the right to vote.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Electoral Law, article 5: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
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):
a . Signature requirement (specify requirement) f . Other
Comments: An affidavit must be signed by each candidate running for national elections. In addition, a minimum of 30% of the candidates for elected offices and in proportion with possibilities of being elected must be women.
Source: Political Parties’ Law: “Ley Orgánica de los Partidos Políticos — Ley 23298”, art. 7 & 8: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-23298-organica-pp-pp-2017/ (2019)
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: The lists that present candidates must have women in a minimum of 30% of the candidates for elected offices and in proportion with possibilities of being elected. Besides they must designate a financial and a campaign responsibles.
Source: Articles 60 Law No. 19.945 and 7 Law No. 25.600.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: In order to be eligible, one must be 25 years old, have Argentinian citizenship for at least four years and originate from the constituency where he/she seeks to be elected or have two consecutive years of residence in it.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la Nación Argentina — Ley 24430, texto oficial ordenado”, art. 48: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-constitucion-nacional-reformas-1994/ (2019);
Law for the Democratisation of political representation, transparency, and electoral equity: “Ley de Democratización de la representación política, la transparencia y la equidad electoral — Ley 26571”, art. 21: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-26571-democratizacion-transparencia-equidad-2019/ (2019)
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship c . Country of birth d . Residence
Comments: Requires to reach 30 years old, have six years of citizenship and to be natural of the province or to have two years of inmediate residence in it, and to enjoy an annual income of 2000 "pesos fuertes" or an equivalent receipt.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la Nación Argentina — Ley 24430, texto oficial ordenado”, art. 55: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-constitucion-nacional-reformas-1994/ (2019).
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship c . Country of birth d . Residence e . Citizenship of parents
Comments: To be borned in argentinian territory or, if they borned in a foreign country, to be son of a native citizen, and to have the other qualities require for being elected senator.
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la Nación Argentina — Ley 24430, texto oficial ordenado”, art. 89: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-constitucion-nacional-reformas-1994/ (2019).
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention c . Criminal record e . Offences against electoral law f . Holding of military office h . Bankruptcy or Insolvency j . Physical health problems k . Mental health problems n . Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
Comments: Requires not to be affected by any legal disqualification (Art. 60 Law N14 19.945).With regard to the physical health problems, it refers to deaf-mutes who cannot give to understand in writing. Insolvency refers to the requirement of an annual income of 2000 "pesos fuertes" or an equivalent receipt.
Source: Laws No. 19.945 and 23.298.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention c . Criminal record e . Offences against electoral law f . Holding of military office h . Bankruptcy or insolvency j . Physical health problems k . Mental health problems n . Holding of other public offices (police etc.) p . Other
Comments: Requires not to be affected by any legal disqualification (Art. 60 Law N1 19.945).With regard to the physical health problems, it refers to deaf-mutes who cannot give to understand in writing. Insolvency refers to the requirement of an annual income of 2000 "pesos fuertes" or an equivalent receipt.
Source: Laws No. 19.945 and 23.298.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Neither in presidential nor legislative elections
Comments:
Source: Constitution: “Constitución de la Nación Argentina — Ley 24430, texto oficial ordenado”, art. 38: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-constitucion-nacional-reformas-1994/ (2019);
Political Parties’ Law: “Ley Orgánica de los Partidos Políticos — Ley 23298”, art. 2: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-23298-organica-pp-pp-2017/ (2019);
Law for the Democratisation of political representation, transparency, and electoral equity: “Ley de Democratización de la representación política, la transparencia y la equidad electoral — Ley 26571”, art. 21: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-26571-democratizacion-transparencia-equidad-2019/ (2019)
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Independents can`t compete, neither in presidential nor legislative elections.
Source: Cámara Nacional Electoral and Law No. 19.945.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: Independents can`t compete, neither in presidential nor legislative elections.
Source: Cámara Nacional Electoral and Law No. 19.945.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Independents can`t compete, neither in presidential nor legislative elections.
Source: Cámara Nacional Electoral and Law No. 19.945.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct c . Indirect
Comments: The state guarantees the funding of political parties by contributions through the Permanent Supporter Fund.
Source: Law for Financing Political Parties: “Ley de Financiamiento de los partidos políticos — Ley 26215”, art. 5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-26215-financiamiento-pp-pp-2019/ (2019)
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments: Political parties receive annually resources determinated by the National General Budget, and extraordinarily for election years.
Source: Articles 15 and 21 Law No. 25.600.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access b . Tax credits
Comments:
Source: Articles 45 Law No. 23.298, 6 and 31 Law No. 25.600.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
a . Equal funding, regardless of size and previous performance b . Based on result of previous election
Comments: 20% of available resources are distributed in an egalitarian way between all recognized parties, while 80% are distributed in proportion with the results of the previous national deputies election.
Source: Law for Financing Political Parties: “Ley de Financiamiento de los partidos políticos — Ley 26215”, art. 9: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-26215-financiamiento-pp-pp-2019/ (2019)
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
a . General party administration b . Election campaign activities
Comments: The Estate guarantee the functioning of political parties by contributions destines for institutional development and political capacitation and education, and for general electoral campaigns.
Source: Article 12 Law No. 25.600
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Private funding can be designated to the Permanent Supporter Fund (managed by the Ministry of Interior) or directly to political parties.
Source: Law for Financing Political Parties: “Ley de Financiamiento de los partidos políticos — Ley 26215”, art. 14: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-26215-financiamiento-pp-pp-2019/ (2019)
Verified: 2021/12/26
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: Law doesn`t settle periods for private funding. The only limits refer to ceilings for contributions.
Source: Law No. 25.600.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received b . Public disclosure of party expenditure c . Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources d . Ceilings on how much money a party can raise e . Ceilings on party election expenses h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports i . Other
Comments: Also are prohibited anonymous contributions and from people or institutions indicated by law.
Source: Article 38 National Constitution, Law No. 25.600 and Decree No. 02 of 04/02/03 from the Electoral National Chamber.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
j . Not applicable
Comments: The law only refers to funding of political parties, confederations or alliances.
Source: Law No. 25.600.
Verified: 2021/12/26
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
c . Government department d . Other
Comments: External control of the parties financial activity is a duty of the "Auditoría General de la Nación", without prejudice of the intervention of federal justice with electoral competence.
Source: Laws No. 23.298 and 25.600.
Verified: 2021/12/26
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) f . Same ballot papers used nationwide m . Organized alphabetically o . Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
Comments: Ballots contain the names addresses and occupation of the candidates alphabetically arranged in the order of their surnames. Opposite to the name of each candidature there is a prescribed symbol. The ballot papers have a space on the face of the ballot for the initials of the presiding officer and have attached a counterfoil, a stub and a line of perforations between the ballot and the counterfoil and between the counterfoil and the stub.
Every ballot paper is marked with an official mark, which can be either stamped or perforated. This official mark is kept in secret an interval of not less than seven years shall intervene between the use of the same official mark at elections in the same polling division.
Source: HAER: 15 and 16.
Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, Art 27(3) and 38(6)
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
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: HAER: 39.
Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) i . Tallying by party representative and/or observers as votes are being called out j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand t . Other
Comments:
Source: HAER. 39 and 41.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
c . District level
Comments: Following the counting, the results with the ballot box, the key of the ballot box, and the preliminary statement of the poll and the polling station account are transmitted by the presiding officer to the returning officer.
Source: HAER: 41
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
b . District level
Comments: Single member constituencies.
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979, Articles 23 and 33.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported b . By telephone e . Radio
Comments: Following the counting the presiding officer transmit (by fax or radio)or deliver to the returning officer the preliminary statement of the poll, in such manner as the Supervisor of Elections may direct.
Source: HAER: 41.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
a . Ballots b . Unused and spoiled ballots c . Counterfoils of used ballots d . Voter rolls e . Tendered ballots f . Certificate of result g . Ballot boxes h . Other
Comments:
Source: HAER: 41
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
e . Accompanied by election officials f . Accompanied by party representatives h . Accompanied by police or other security personnel
Comments:
Source: Constitution of St. Vincent and the Grenadines 1979 and St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
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 (not necessarily a recount) , and in the presence of the candidates or their agents.
The returning officer, count the votes contained therein cast for each candidate, the votes rejected by the presiding officer and determine the valid votes, the total number of votes. The candidate who, on final count of the votes, is found to have secured the largest number of votes, is declared elected in writing and a copy of such declaration shall be forthwith delivered to each candidate or his agent.
Besides, an additional recount can be requested by a candidate, but the returning officer may refuse to do so if, in his opinion, the request is unreasonable.
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law, Article 42: https://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
c . Legislative formula or regulation
Comments: After the count at each polling stations, all votes are subject to a final count (recount) at the district level by the respective returning officer.
Source: HAER: 42 and 45.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate
Comments: A candidate may, if present when the count or re-count of the votes is completed, require the returning officer to have the votes recounted or again re-counted but the returning officer may refuse to do so if, in his opinion, the request is unreasonable.
Source: HAER: 42.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
c . Local Election Management body
Comments: The returning officer of the relevant constituency.
Source: HAER: 42.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Office.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: As soon as the returning officer 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; return the name to the Supervisor of Elections for transmission to the Governor-General and give public notice of his name and the total number of votes given for each candidate.
The returning officer return as soon as practicable, the name of the member elected by endorsing on the writ a certificate and by delivering himself, or forwarding by his agents, the writ duly endorsed to the Supervisor of Elections for transmission to the Governor-General. The returning officer forward to each of the candidates a duplicate or copy of the return to the writ by him. The Supervisor of Elections, transmit the writ with the return endorsed thereon to the Governor-General.
Then, the returning officer immediately after each general election, causes to be printed a report giving by polling divisions, 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 also, at the end of each year, cause to be printed a similar report on the by-elections held during the year.
Source: HAER: 45 and 46.
Verified: 2021/12/27
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: Two to three days. The Governor General sets the time which is usually 48 to 72 hours.
Source: Electoral Office.
Verified: 2021/12/27
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 allocation of free broadcast time or free printed advertisement space to political parties.
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
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: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
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: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
Verified: 2021/12/27
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:
b . 81-90%
Comments:
Source: Electoral Office.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
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: The Representation of the People Act, art. 34 (1): http://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html (2013)
Verified: 2021/12/27
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
a . Outside the country voting is not permitted
Comments:
Source: The Representation of the People Act, art. 34 (1): http://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html (2013)
Verified: 2021/12/27
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: Voting outside the country is not permitted.
Source: The Representation of the People Act, art. 34 (1): http://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html (2013)
Verified: 2021/12/27
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
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 national election day.
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
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 national election day.
Source:
Verified: 2021/12/27
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Office.
Verified: 2021/12/27
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: The Representation of the People Act, art. 31: http://pdba.georgetown.edu/Electoral/StVincent/StV&Gr.html (2013)
Verified: 2021/12/27
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