Operational Arrangements
Political Party Liaison
The organization of elections necessarily involves the EMB to be in contact with political parties
through their organizational structure, their candidates, agents and other party volunteers. The
EMB plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity of the election process but it must be
remembered
that political parties have a similar role to play in ensuring fairness of the process and
engendering confidence in the system by playing by the rules and, in particular, the acceptance
of results.
The independence of the staff involved in administering the election process is fundamental to
the integrity of the election process. They should have clear, transparent procedures which make
them accountable at every stage of the process. They should act in a truly independent and
non-partisan way. In some countries such as Papua New Guinea and South Africa there are
constitutional guarantees for the independence of the EMB. In other countries the independent
nature of the EMB forms part of the election law.
Whatever the legal status for the establishment of the EMB and the lower level election bodies
members should be appointed in such a way so as to ensure public confidence. This is
particularly important if the make-up of these bodies is based on party membership or support.
The EMB should establish a process whereby there is a regular contact with political parties.
During non-election periods communication may be in the form of letters, briefing notes,
newsletters or circulars supplemented by quarterley meetings.
Once an election is called party representatives should be invited to attend a pre-election briefing
where such issues as:
- election timetable
- allocation of broadcasting time
- media monitoring arrangements
- polling place allocation
- party rally arrangements
- nomination process
- election day arrangements
- counting of the votes
can be discussed.
Agreement to any code of conduct or, in the absence of such a code, agreement to play by the
rules may be a useful tool for the EMB to use to demonstrate a public commitment to fair
elections.
The political parties should be advised of the process for direct contact with the EMB. Liaison
is a two way process, important not only to the EMB but to the political players.
