In what five ways can elections be made free and fair in a country?

Answer Details

An election is free and fair when it is conducted openly, honestly and impartially so that the true wishes of the electorate are reflected in the result. Elections can be made free and fair in the following five ways:

1. An independent and impartial electoral body: There should be a neutral electoral commission, free from government control, to organise and supervise the elections honestly, register voters, count votes and announce results without bias.
2. An up-to-date and accurate voters' register: A credible register of genuine, qualified voters should be prepared and displayed for correction, so as to prevent multiple registration, impersonation and the padding of names.
3. Adequate and impartial security: The police and other security agencies should provide protection at polling stations and remain neutral, so that voters can vote freely without intimidation, thuggery or violence.
4. Secret ballot: Voting should be by secret ballot so that electors can vote according to their conscience without fear of being victimised, and to prevent bribery and undue influence.
5. Equal opportunity for all parties and candidates: All political parties and candidates should have equal access to the mass media, freedom to campaign, and a level playing field, without the party in power abusing state resources or the incumbency advantage.
6. Effective machinery for settling disputes: There should be impartial election tribunals and courts to hear and determine complaints and petitions quickly, so that electoral malpractices can be punished and injustices corrected.
7. Voter education and the presence of observers: Educating the electorate on the voting process and allowing local and international observers help to ensure transparency and reduce malpractice.

(Any five of the above are acceptable.)