1st phase of Political Parties Registration and Electoral Acts implementation

Oct 14, 2024 | News | 0

A legislative and administrative workshop was conducted recently by the State Law Office (SLO) and the Vanuatu Electoral Office (VEO) to educate stakeholders and staff about the provisions of the Electoral Act and the Political Parties Registration Act.

In light of the recent gazetted Acts, the SLO and VEO facilitated a two-day workshop to improve understanding of these important legal frameworks among stakeholders, including political party representatives and electoral officials.

The political landscape of this democratic nation is shaped by its electoral laws and the regulatory framework governing political parties. Accordingly, the primary objectives of the workshop were to explain the provisions of the Electoral Act and the Political Parties Registration Act to all officials before extending this knowledge to civil society. Principal Electoral Officer (PEO) Guilain Malessas said the workshop marks the beginning of the implementation of both Acts.

“This is the first phase of the implementation of both Acts, and all our staff must familiarise themselves with the provisions before we fully implement them to the general public through awareness campaigns that we will conduct in every province soon,” the PEO said.

The workshop also encouraged dialogue among stakeholders regarding the implications of these laws on political participation and electoral integrity. It provided a platform for stakeholders to raise questions and share experiences related to the implementation of electoral laws.

During the workshop, presenters provided a detailed analysis of the relevant Acts, including the legal framework governing the registration and operation of political parties. PEO Malessas noted that the Electoral Act will require more time for complete adjustment while maintaining the independence of the commission.

“This transition to the new Electoral Governing Act needs time, and the Commission will adjust accordingly,” he emphasised.

The VEO is now preparing for an awareness campaign regarding the Act and will later invite all political parties in Vanuatu to come forward and register, as stipulated by the provisions of this law.

The successful execution of the workshop was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the SLO, VEO, participating stakeholders, and guest speakers who contributed their expertise.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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