Members from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association have been invited to the Island to review the election process – including nominations night and the constitution of the States Chamber – against international standards and Jersey law.
The team arrived in the Island on Saturday, having already carried out scoping missions in August and December, as well as for last month’s nominations meetings.
The main focus of their final report will be on how the polls are run and votes are counted. The review will also look at how Islanders are able to register to vote, the nominations process and political campaigning.
At a press conference this week, Philip Paulwell, who is head of the group, said: ‘The mission will gather information and then make an informed evaluation.
‘It will not interfere in the process and will not police its electoral practices. We may raise questions with election officials and may bring their attention to any irregularities if and when the need arises.
‘Observers will strictly adhere to the CPA British Islands and Mediterranean Region code of conduct and will be autonomous, impartial and independent in their observation and assessment of the election.’
The final report will offer recommendations designed to improve the running of future elections, with Mr Paulwell adding that ‘we are here to support democracy’ in the Island.
Last year, States Members approved an amendment to the Public Elections Law which allowed election observers. The election observers were invited to the Island by Chief Minister Ian Gorst and Privileges and Procedures Committee chairman Len Norman.
Mr Paulwell added: ‘Our assessment will consider the legal framework, the campaign, the media, polling and counting procedures and the complaints and appeals mechanism.
‘During our brief time here we have been well received and we are all overwhelmed by the warm welcome of the people of Jersey.’
A preliminary report is expected to be published within two days of polling day on Wednesday 16 May, with a final report – including any recommendations for electoral reform – made available within two months.
