Codes of conduct or ethics are usually a set of written rules that govern the conduct of public officials, including election managers. Some electoral systems include codes of conduct to govern the conduct of political parties, candidates and lobbyist groups. Codes are designed to prevent unethical behaviour (see Ethical Behaviour) and, if legally binding, can hold officials accountable for their individual actions.
Codes of conduct or ethics can be a stand alone document or a part of a larger piece of legislation. For example, the Ethics and Disclosure Act, Wyoming 84 is part of a larger piece of legislation on public service, and Wyoming electoral managers are bound by this code of ethics. In South Africa, the Code of Conduct for election managers is a separate regulation that was designed specifically for elections.
Codes of conduct or ethics that are enacted in legislation or regulations are enforced and include sanctions and penalties for violations. Sanctions can be a fine, suspension from office or disqualification as a candidate. For example, violations of the Wyoming Ethics Law are misdemeanours punishable upon conviction by a fine of not more than $1,000. Violations of ethics laws are also usually sufficient cause to terminate a public employee's employment or to remove a public official from office.85 Violations of the code that involved criminal action are referred to the criminal justice system.
In India, political parties and contesting candidates are expected to abide by a Model Code of Conduct. The Code was issued by the Election Commission after the political parties reached consensus on its content. The Model Code lays down broad guidelines as to how the political parties and candidates should conduct themselves during the campaign.
It is intended to maintain the election campaign on healthy lines, avoid clashes and conflicts between political parties or their supporters and to ensure peace and order during the campaign period and thereafter, until the results are declared. The model code also prescribes guidelines for the ruling party, either at the Centre or in the State, to ensure that a level field is maintained and that no cause is given for any complaint that the ruling party has used its official position for the purposes of its election campaign.86
For more on codes of conduct for political parties, see Codes of Conduct for Political Parties, National Election Observation (for National Observers) and Standards to Judge Elections (for International Observers).
