The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has issued a stern warning to security personnel regarding their conduct at polling stations in light of the forthcoming 2024 general elections. The CHRAJ has particularly advised against accepting food or items from election candidates within polling areas, equating such actions with corruption that threatens the integrity of the electoral process. Dr. Joseph Whittal, the Commissioner of CHRAJ, emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality among security officers during elections to uphold public trust in the political system. The recent emergence of social media footage featuring security personnel accepting food while on duty during the Special Voting exercise raised significant concerns and prompted the commission’s response.
Dr. Whittal condemned the actions shown in the footage as not only inappropriate but also “embarrassing,” and indicated that accepting food from candidates creates a slippery slope that can undermine the security personnel’s ability to maintain order at polling stations. He pointed out that accepting items from potential candidates could compromise the integrity of their official duties, especially when such items may influence voter behavior. The Commissioner stressed that such actions contradict ethical standards expected from those tasked with ensuring free and fair elections, urging security personnel to recognize the serious implications their actions can have on electoral credibility.
Addressing the media, Dr. Whittal reiterated the necessity for security agencies to maintain a heightened level of vigilance when it comes to food distribution and other similar activities near polling stations. He expressed concern over what could happen if more candidates sought to distribute food to voters, undermining fair practice and creating an environment where improper conduct becomes normalized. By accepting food from candidates, security personnel risk losing the authority and moral high ground needed to ensure a secure polling environment, especially during the critical voting period on December 7.
Moreover, the CHRAJ has plans to deploy 300 staff members across the 276 constituencies during the general elections to monitor potential rights violations and assess the integrity of the electoral process. The intention is to observe and report on various indicators that may arise on election day, with subsequent recommendations expected from these observations. Dr. Whittal also indicated that while CHRAJ did not provide observers during the Special Voting exercise, they will consider this for future electoral events to ensure their oversight capabilities are robust and effective in fostering fair elections.
In reinforcing the seriousness of their message, Dr. Whittal highlighted the legal implications surrounding the distribution of food and monetary items during elections, stating that sharing such items is not merely a violation of ethical norms but also a significant integrity issue that could result in corruption. It is crucial for all stakeholders, particularly those in security roles, to remain firmly committed to principles of fairness and to avoid any actions that could be construed as bias or favoritism.
Ultimately, CHRAJ’s call to action serves as a reminder for all parties involved in the electoral process to prioritize the principles of democracy and integrity. As the 2024 general elections approach, the agency’s proactive approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining a fair and transparent electoral environment where every citizen’s right to vote is respected. The message underscores a collective responsibility to ensure that the electoral process is not tainted by unethical practices, thereby safeguarding the democratic ethos of the nation.
